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A HIGH CLASS COMEDY IN THREE ACTS 



BY 



JOSEPH F\MV& 



Copyright 1900 by Joseph Murk. 



J r 



'^pbe Philanthropist." 



A HIGH CLASS COMEDY IN THREE ACTS, 



BY 



tJOSEPH iVTOS 



Copyright 1900 by Joseph Marks. 



THE LIBRARY OF 
RESS, 

Two C 

JUL 6 1903 

Copygnt 
CLASS cu «fc, N 



COPY B. 



IJ 



f 5t *4 



- . ... . 
• • j . .. 



Copyright Notice and Warning. 



The play of "The Philanthropist" is duly protected by copy- 
right, and is printed for professional use, and public representation 
or performance of i*,. either Professional or Amateur, can be made 
only with the consent of the author or his agents, upon payment 
of a royalty. 

Address the Author, 1235 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans, La., 

or Miss Elizabeth Marbury, 

Empire Theatre Building, New York, City. 



Extract from U S. Revised Statutes, Title 60, Chapter 3, 
tion 4966. 



Sec- 



"Sec. 4966- Any person publicly performing or representing 
any dramatic or musical composition for which a copyright has 
been obtained, without the consent of the proprietor of said 
dramatic or musical composition, or his heirs or assigns, shall be 
liable for damages therefor, such damages in all cases to be as- 
sessed at such sum, not less than $100 for the first and $50 for every 
subsequent performR nee, as to the court shall appear to be just. 
If the unlawful performance and representation be wilful and for 
profit, such person or persons shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, 
and upon conviction be imprisoned for a period not exceeding one 
year." 



"THE PHILANTHROPIST." 



A HIGH CLASS COMEDY IN THREE ACTS, 



BY 



JOSEPH MARKS. 



Cyrus Burbank "The Philanthropist," a Millionaire 

Bachelor and self-made man. 

John H Wilson A Wall Street Magnate, interested with 

Burbank in several financial projects. 

Sidney Gordon A poor orphan, who has nothing to do 

but spend money, (of which he has a 
tremendous stack), and go to swell re- 
ceptions. 

HaelandA. Fields A Wall Street Broker, an old friend of 

both Burbank and Wilson, and was al- 
so of Jas. Gordon, deceased, Sidney's 
father. 

Rev. Ed. T Holland Director of Battery Mechanical Schools 

and Conductor of Charitable Enrcr- 
prises. 

Terry Murphy Burbank's Office Boy. who has brains 

enough for a dozen. 

Ethel Jordan. A Ward of Burbank's. 

Edith Wilson Mr. Wilson's daughter. 

Mrs Mary Wilson. • ....... Mr. WiUon's wife. 

Farmer Jones 1 

Farmer Simon >■ A Soliciting Committee, 

Deacon of Country Church. ) 

Two Reporters, a Butler, a Messenger Boy. 



ACT I. Office of Cyrus Burbank. 

ACT II. Conservatory and Gardens of John Wilson 

ACT III. Parlor of Cyrus Burbank. 



THE PLOT. 

Many years before the action of the play Cyrus Burbank, an 
orphan boy, worked in a woollen mill in Maryland, side by side 
with Bessie Jordan, a girl made unhappy by her miserable home. 
And from pity grew his love. Bessie refuses to marry, on account 
of the depravity of her parents. She is attacked by a disease con- 
tracted as a result of improper ventilation and inferior machinery 
at the mill, and dies. Burbank embittered by the condition of the 
mill hands, resolved to devote his efforts toward their benefit and 
improvement; he is successful, his patents better their condition 
and are the first steps toward his rapid advancement and growing 
fortune. At the opening of the play he is a man passed the middle 
age, a millionaire, bachelor, financier and promoter recognized as 
a philanthropist, having done much to benefit the working classes, 
built a mechanical instruction school, endowed several orphan 
asylums, colleges, etc. Some years back he together with John 
H. Wilson and Jas. Gordon built the Delaware Shortline Bailroad, 
a small line which they hoped to have subsidized by the Grand 
Trunk Line, Jas. Gordon being influential in the latter company 
and it having been made by "private arrangement" to his interest 
to help them in their plan. The consolidation of the two roads 
was on the point of completion when Gordon died and the loss of 
his influence swamped the plan. Sidney Gordon inherited his 
father's wealth, but entrusted to Harland Fields, his power to vote 
his stocks. Burbank has adopted Ethel Jordan, a distant relative 
of his deceased Bessie. Upon her return from the boarding school, 
at which she has spent several years, Burbank notices her resem- 
blance to Bessie and his love for her begins to grow deeper and 
changes the color of his thoughts and the even tenor of his life. 
He resolves to bring her out into a social position and try to win 
her for himself alone, in a free for all contest against any who may 
appear as rivals. Mrs. Mary Wilson offers her home and approach- 
ing reception as the occasion of Miss Jordan's debut, in grateful- 
ness for which Burbanks donates another $10,000 to a charitable 
enterprise over which Mrs. Wilson is patroness. Sidney Gordon 
although engaged to Edith Wilson falls in love with Ethel Jordan 
and is made happy to learn she will make her debut at the Wil- 
sons'. As it has become evident that the controllers of the Trunk 
Line Railroad will not subsidize the Delaware Shortline so long as 
Wilson and Burbank hold nearly all the stock; a clique is 
formed by Wilson and the Grand Trunk holders to subsidize the 
road provided Burbank's stock could be secured. Burbank having 
already made up his mind to retire from Wall Street, where lately 
he had been getting some pretty hard bumps and having unboun- 
ded trust in Wilson, his life long friend, is unguarded enough to 
sell to Wilson, to be delivered in ten days, his entire Delaware 
holdings. As soon as the agreement to sell is signed and it becomes 
known to the clique that the combine can now be consummated 
the stocks take a rapid jump upward. Burbank realizes that he 
has been tricked and in a spirit of anger and bitterness resolves to 
even his score with Wilson. As the stock is not to leave his actual 
possession for ten days, he will still have power to vote it at the 
approaching meeting nine days hence. If he can get Harland 
Fields, who votes Gordon's shares by proxy, to vote together with 
him, they together can defeat the proposition to consolidate the 
two roads. He sees Fields, promises to elect him president, is as- 
sured of his votes. Knowing then he has power to defeat Wilson 
he anticipates the disastrous result of the approaching meeting by 
selling stock at the present high price expecting by the great de- 
cline that will follow the meeting to strike a great financial blow 



at Wilson. At the reception at Wilson's house, Wilson sounds 
Fields as to how he will vote at the meeting on the following mor- 
ning, becoming alarmed at Field's evasiveness, he plainly shows 
his hand, which is that Sidney Gordon, his future son-in-law, owns 
the stock, he threatens to explain to him why he has reason to fear 
that Fields will not vote the stock on the morrow to Gordon's best 
interests, threatens to have the proxy revoked and Gordon present 
to vote the stock himself. Fields realizing that "its all up," has- 
tens to explain, assures Wilson that he can count on him, and 
Burbank, who overhears it all, has his hopes which had been high 
and his heart lighter than for many -years, dashed from him, he 
sees absolute financial disaster and ruin face him. He bravely 
tries to hide his despair for her sake not wishing to mar her 
pleasure on this, her first appearance. The music strikes up from 
the ball-room a maddening clear waltz, for which he has been 
anxiously waiting, it carries him up and out of despair into which 
he had fallen, he drives back his sorrow, he hopes that there may 
still be one great happiness, which will over-shade all else, he 
grows young and fearless again, like his old true self and holding 
her hand in his, runs into the ball-room like a boy. On the same 
evening Edith Wilson who loves Rev. Holland, breaks her engage- 
ment to Sidney Gordon. The morrow sad and bitter is the day of 
reckoning; Burbank, calm and humble, prepares Ethel for the 
worst, although he had hesitated till now, now that he felt she 
would be obliged to give up her social position and that life hence- 
forth would be a hard and bitter path he tells of his great love. 
Ethel really loves Gordon, but feels that as a matter of duty she 
cannot forsake her benefactor. She neither declines nor accepts. 
Gordon interrupts ; he hears of Burbank's misfortune. Burbank 
now begins to see Gordon's real manliness and although he knows 
he too loves Ethel, is happy that he did not forget her as soon as 
he learned she was no longer the prospective heiress of a rich man. 
Ethel declines to marry Gordon, her duty to Burbank. being up- 
most. Gordon leaves in great mental anguish, after leaving he 
vaguely recalls the name of the stock, that he owns some of it, he 
rushes back in great excitement, hurrys Burbank, they leave for 
the meeting together. Gordon revokes Fields' power-of-attorney, 
he and Burbank vote together, almost wrecking the road by voting 
high salaries, extravagant expenditures, elect one another to 
highes offices, including Terry, the office boy. Burbank is saved 
from financial ruin. Gordon returns to Ethel, he tells her of Bur- 
banks escape, he again pleads his cause, this time with success. 
Burbank returns, both are now his children, they take him gently 
forward, Gordon half retires, Ethel tries to tellthim all, but sob's 
and fails, he knows all already, his love is hopeless, bravely gives 
her to Sidney, resolved to be happy in their happiness and free 
again from thoughts of self, go on living his useful life as he 
had years ago mapped it, for himself work, giving help and hope 
to others. 






— 6 — 
03TXJIVLE3S. 



Cyrus Burbank : Act I. 

Act II. 
Act III 



Sidney Gordan 



Jno H Wilson : 
Ed. T. Holland: 

Ter. Murphy: 



Ethel Jordan : 
Ethel Wilson : 

Mrs. Wilson: 

Farmer Jones : 
Farmer Simon : 
Church Deacon 



Actl. 

&III. 
Act II. 



Actl 
&III. 

Act I. 
Act II. 
Act III. 
Act I. 
Act II. 
Act III. 
Actl. 
Act II. 



Business suit, modest pretentions. 
Overcoat. 

Full dress— perfect in every detail. 
To wear pants, shoes, tie and collar of 
Act II, together with smoking jacket- 
changes jacket for black frock and 
fancy vest (modest), silk hat. 
Most up-to-date fashion for street, con- 
sistent in detail. 
Full dress. 
Same as Gordan. 

Clerical; Fashionable as custom will 
permit. 

Neat business suit, fancy vest: changes 
vest, coat and hat for well worn coat, 
vest and golf cap- 
Stylish street dress. 
White decollete. 
Morning toilet. 

■j Same as Jordan. 

Same as Jordan. 

Fashionable reception dress. 

Rural. 

Rural. 

Poorly dressed clergyman. 



PROPERTIE 



Messenger Boy 
Murphy 

Farmer Jones 
Farmer Simons 
Deycom 
Reporters 



Burbank 

Wilson 

Fields 



Butler 
Murphy 



ACT I. 

Duster at wall-books— papers for center table — 
unopened letters— paper cutter, newspapers, check 
book, paper, envelopes, pens, inkstand, Burbank's 
desk, box cigars and matches in drawer, three 
notes to give to Murphy. 
Messages and receipt book. 

Large silver watch— pencil to sign, or fountain 
pen can be used for business. 



Hand satchels— Assorted shapes. 
Note books. 



ACT II. 



Jm 



Cigars and matches 



ACT III. 

Note — Bunch carnations. 
Small printed newsheet. 



"THE PHILANTHROPIST." 

OFFICE OF CYRUS BURBANK. 

Class door in rear centre, large roller top desk at left closed — 
large office chair, paper basket at right desk. Large flat-top table 
in centre, (green felt cover), four office chairs, pen, ink and papers, 
checkbook. Door leading off right. Telephone at wall, right of 
rear door. Duster hanging on nail, etc. Package of unopened 
letters on Burbank's desk, also newspapers. 

Terry Murphy enters in haste as curtain rises, looks at watch 
nervously. 

Terry. Well luck's with me still, just getting down at half past 
nine, and I am the first one here anyway. When I used to get three 
dollars a week, I managed to get down at half past seven, now- 
got a raise, can't do it to save my life. Some of these mornings the 
old gentleman is going to get down here before I do, and then this 
smarty is going to walk the plank- 

(Hangs hat at left, changes coat, take duster from the wall, dusts 
centre table and chairs). 

Must get this work done before my eye sees that newspaper, 
(points to paper on desk), too apt to get interested in the ball 
game. (Approaches desk). What a batch of letters, I wonder if 
some day I will be able to sit down at my desk, and open letters, 
(takes letters and reads the business cards in corner. > 

Here is one that's business, and to the point. (Reads.) "The 
President's Office Lake Erie Railroad. If not delivered promptly, 
return at once". That's either notice of a stockholder's meeting, 
or a dividend Here is another. "Private Office A. G. T. M. South- 
ern Pacific Company." What does A. G. T. M. mean ? Oh, I have 
it, Assistant General Traffic Manager. If I was him I'd spell it 
out so people would know for sure what I was (Messenger boy 
appears at rear door). Here is another. 

Mess. Say, sign for dis message, I'm in a hurry, see ? 

Terry. (Loftily). Oh you are in a hurry, a messenger boy in a 
hurry, that's the same old gag. (Signs for message.) 

Terry. Say, I'd like to have one of your pictures. 

Mess. Sorry, I can't accomodate you, just placed my latest at 
the Academy. 

Terry. Say, I'm coming down to see the President of your Com- 
pany after awhile, to tell him what a wonder you are. 

Mess. Oh, you need'nt put yourself to such a great inconvenience. 
I'll send the President up to you. So long. (Exit). 

Terry. There, that comes from getting down at half past nine, 
threw me down and wiped the floor up with me. Wait till I see 
him again. I'll paralize him. (Resumes reading envelopes). (Con- 
temptuously.) 

"From the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Cats and 
Dogs." "From the Sisters of St. Paul's Mission and Sewing 
Schools." 

"From the Zuzuland Bible and Prayer Book Society". 

He gets about five thousand of these a year, and every one that 
he considers really worthy, he helps along. Its a good thing he 
has'nt a big family depending on him, for the way he gives would 
wreck a bank. Some day I'm going to form a society for the "Pre- 
vention of manufacturing cats into sausage", write him a lovely 
letter, wonder how much I'll get. 



8 — 



(Enter Mrs. and Miss Wilson, and Rev. Holland.) 

Rev. H. Good morning, is Mr. Burbank in ? 

Terry. No, he is not yet down. 

Mrs. W. Why I always heard he was the first man on Wall 
Street to get to his office in the morning. 

Terry. Well, yes'm, he used to be, but ever since— er— 

Mrs. W. Ever since what ? 

Terry. Well, you see ever since ]Miss Mabel came back he has 
been changing his habits a little. 

Miss W. Oh, yes, that's his niece.— I hear she is very pretty ? 

Terry. Pretty, why she's the prettiest girl in— fifty States. 

Miss W. Oh, but there are only forty-five in the Union. 

Rev. H. He was counting in the Territories, (they laugh). Let 
us see how patiently we can await his coming. 

(They take seats at right around centre table). 

Terry. At left. (Aside). Now that's a preacher, I can tell it by 
his hands, and he'll just work the old man tor about $5,000 to help 
him digest his breakfast. The first thing he is going to ask me, is 
if I go to Sunday School. I'll tell you right now, it won't 
take him long to find out all I know about Sunday School. 

Rev. H. I sugpose young man, that you know you are very for- 
tunate to have employment under such a good man as Mr. Bur- 
bank, how did you get it ? 

Terry. Well, you see it happened this way. I used to shine shoes 
once, and I was the only boy that could shine Mr. Burbank's to 
his satisfaction. 

Miss W. That was a very good beginning, it shows that even as 
a boy, you could do something well. (Rev. H nod's approvingly). 

Terry. Ah, I don't say I did it so very well, it was just a secret 
I had that none of the boys were on to. 

Mrs. W. A Secret? 

Terry. Yes'm, you see right here on his right foot, he had a bad 
corn, well all the other boys would shine that corn till his face was 
blue, but I just glanced it over nice and easy like, and he said there 
was'nt a one could touch me. 

Rev. H. He must have worried a great deal to find a successor 
when you changed offices. 

Terry. Oh, I fixed that all right, I told him I knew a fellow who 
could give me cards and spades 

Mrs. W. A very strange and unfavorable recommendation. 

Terry. Well, I did'nt just exactly say that. 

Miss W. The expression was used to convey another idea alto- 
gether Mother. 

Rev. H. Come finish the story, how did you "fix it" ? 

Terry. Why, you see I just told the other boy the secret, and 
he filled the bill. (Rev. H. and Miss W. Laugh. Telephone rings 
furiously. Terry runs to 'phone almost upsetting Mrs. W. and a 
chair). 

Terry. Hello !— Mr. Burbank's office,— No, he is not in,— expect, 
him down at any moment,— 88,— alright I'll tell him. yes I'll ask 
him. (puts up 'phone). (Burbank's voice off rear). Here Norton, 
how long do you intend to leave that ice on the sidewalk, there is'nt 
enough to last an hour. (Janitor's voice off rear). Why sir that's 
not our ice. 



— 9 — 

Barb. V. Not our ice ? Well, what's it doing down there then. 
Why don't you throw it down the cellar, or the elevator, or the 
sewer. It has no business laying there where it is, for people to 
break their necks over. 

Terry. He has bumped that corn. 

Voice of B. I noticed last night when I went home that you 
stuck a broom in the ash barrel, that had'nt been used two days. 
Do you suppose I am going to buy you a new broom every 15 
minutes, because the Janitor next door has a new one ? 

Voice J. Why sir, that broom , 

Voice B. Never mind, that will do, I know just what I am talking 
about, and if you propose to be extravagant, you will do so at your 
own expense, and the price of that broom comes off your salary. 
(Enter Burbank, half glances at his seated visitors, does not salute, 
seats himself at desk. 

Terry quickly relieves him of his overcoat and hat. 

Burbank. Terry. 

Terry. Yes sir. 

Burbank. If anyone calls to see me on anything but business, tell 
them they will have to call again when I have more time. 

Terry. Yes sir; and Mr. Burbank,— Mr. Fields rang up about 
five minutes ago, and said that Bapid Transit opened at 88, and did 
you want him to sell ? 

Burbank. Opened at 88,— opened up at 88, and did he want me 
to sell ? (laughs;. Why, either Mr. Fields or you, or the telephone 
is crazy. 98 I guess, that's more like it. Why I thought you knew 
better than that. (Terry goes to 'phone and rings ) 

Terry. (Calls at phone) 436 please ! (short wait). Hello, is this 
Mr. Field's -This is Mr. Burbank's office. What was that opening 
you gave on Bapid Transit this morning — Oh, you made a mistake? 

Burbank. (laughs) Ask that great big imbecile if he expetcts me 
to sell at 88. 

Terry. (Quickly) Why sir, don't you know any better than that, 
do you suppose ?— 

Burbank. Tell him to sell at a hundred and two and not a point 
less. 

Terry. You are to hold until it reaches 102, when you are to sell 
—that's all. (rings off). Burbank has arisen and approached 'phone. 

Burbank. Wait let me talk to him. 

Terry. Shall I call him up again ? 

Barbank. No, never mind. (Burbank returns to seat) Terry. 

Terry. Yes sir. 

Burbank How long has this telegram been here ? 

Terry. Just a few minutes. 

Burbank. (after opening and reading). I'll be quite busy for 
some time. 

Terry. (Severely to guests) You see Mr. Burbanks will be very 
busy for sometime, this is Mr. Burbans's busy \day,—now you un- 
derstand that on Mr. Burbank's busy days he cannot attend to 
anything but business, and while you understand Mr. Burbank 
would only be too glad to attend to any business you may have 
that requires his attention, you will readily understand that he is 
to busy to attend to any business but his own, and while he 
wouid'nt like to put you to the inconvenience of calling again, he 
would appreciate it very much if you would call again in about a 
week, or ten days. (They all rise in somewhat surprised manner, 



— 10 — 

ladies slightly annoyed, Holland smiling, reaches for his hat) 
Burbank, who has seated himself and came into the room in a 
cross and disagreeable humor, listens to Terry in amusement, and 
finally laughs quietly. 

Burbank. (Not to gruffly) Terry ! 

Terry. Yes sir. (Walks to right). 

Burbank, That will do. 

Terry. Yes sir. (Walks do right slight-ly abashed). 

Burbank. (Turning to visitors) Please be seated. I'll see you in 
another minute. (To Terry,. Take this letter over to Mr. Wilson's 
office ; tell him I would like to know what he thinks about it. 
(Terry gets hat, and exit with paper). (Burbank continues to write 
at desk for a few moments, puts up pen, and turns in chair to his 
visitors. Looks at Holland, and laughs heartily). 

Burbank. Holland, have you any boys like that over at the 
school. (Kises and advances to Mrs. Wilson, and shakes her hand) 
I don't suppose Mrs. Wilson, that in your long society experience 
you can recall ever having attended a Wall Street reception before? 

Mrs. W- Well, I have been to Mr. Wilson's office once, or twice, 
and I am now of the opinion that his receptions |are quite up to 
the standard. (Burbank has shaken hands with Miss W. and 
Holland ) 

Burbank. Oh, then 3011 have been to Mr. Wilson's office, and 
know what it is like ; I had'nt thought of that. 

Miss W. (To Burbank). I am afraid that you are sorry you re- 
lented. 

Burbank. I ? Not abit of it, I could stay here, and chat all day. 
In fact I had it on the tip of my tongue to ask Mrs. Wilson to re- 
late her experience in her husband's office, so I can have a laugh 
at his expense. 

Mrs. W. Oh, it's soon told. I went down to Mr. Wilson's office 
between eleven and twelve in the morning, and a young scamp 
came up to me and asked whether there was anything he could do 
for me- I said, no sir, there was not,— that I wanted to see Mr. 
Wilson. He said Mr. Wilson was very busy, and I would have to 
wait.I replied I was in a hurry.He said he was very sorry ;the whole 
time there was Mr. Wilson in the further part of the room, at his 
desk smoking a cigar, and reading a paper. I was so anxious to 
see him, and so ignorant of office etiquette, that I stood where I 
was, and called over to him, "Pet, can't I come over there, just a 
minute ? You should have seen him. As for the office boy I never 
saw him again. Mr. Wilson jumped to his feet as though he were 
shot in the back,— well, he gave me the check I had come after, 
but we have never been able to decide whether he made a fool of 
himself, or one out of me. (They all laugh.) 

Burbank. I suppose you have decided the matter in your own 
mind, so that it does'nt matter what he may think. 

Mrs. W. Indeed, I have. 

Burbank. Now, if you will not consider it importune, may I ask 
to whom, and for what purpose am I indebted for this visit ? 

Holland. Mr. Burbank, the matter is this. For some months 
past it has become evident that some important changes or neces- 
sary in our Battery Schools,— improvements that are urgently re- 
quired to give the scholars better light and better ventilation. 

Burbank. How long will it require to make the improvements ? 

Holland. About four weeks. 

Burbank. And the necessary expenditure ? 



— 11 — 

Holland. It is estimated $10,000. 

Burbank. Which amount you would like to have me donate ? 

Burbank. Well sir, you have always eome forward with such 
munificent gifts and endowments that have been utilized for the 
benefit of the poor and working people,— in fact, you have shown 
yourself to be such a noble and true Philantropist, that for the 
sake of those who need it, and who will receive its benefits, I have 
come to ask for them your further help, and financial assistance. 

Bw^bank. Well, Holland ! sit down. Now let me tell you some- 
thing; for the first time in many, many years lam going to do 
that, which is greatest against my innermost wishes, against my 
nature, and against my actual duty, as I have heretofore felt it, 
and that is,— refuse. But I am going to give with my refusal, that 
which I have never given to any man before, — my reasons. You 
all, in fact the world knows me only as a Philanthropist, and a 
millionare, but there is one page In my life that is folded over, that 
no one has ever read. That is my private life. I tell this now be- 
cause I want to it become known. I have adopted a daughter, a 
child of boyhood acquaintance. When she was young I placed her 
at boarding school ; only saw her once in six months, or a year, 
so that she was almost a stranger to me. Now that she has grown 
to be a young lady, she has returned to me, and I am at a loss to 
know what do do, or what is best for her. I have, as you know, 
spent my time and my money for the benefit of humanity. I have 
done so, in fact it has been my one aim, — my one ambition to be- 
nefit the working people, from one of which, I, by my own efforts 
have risen. But now things have changed. I thought I had but 
one obligation, to care for mankind, now. I find when it is almost 
too late that I should care and provide for her and at last,for my- 
self. (Bitterly). Yes, Yes, I cared for the world, but what cares 
the world for me ? I used to move among the wisest of men with 
free, and fearless stride, and they feared me, but now I am grow- 
ing old, many of my best laid plans have been undermined, and 
lately, the very people, with whom I went shoulder to shoulder, are 
out there on the street making bear raise on me. so I have at last 
concluded to quit Wall Street, draw out of my many schemes, dis- 
continue my philanthropic work, and spent the rest of my days 
making her happy, and caring a little bit for myself. I have really, 
but one regret, which is, I h'eve shunned society, for now that I 
would like to bring out this little girl into the circle and position 
her beauty, refinement, and wealth she shall have at my death 
would entitle her, I find myself unable to do so, as she has no 
mother, and I am unable to engineer such matters. (Mrs. W. and 
Miss W. talk together aside.) 

Holland. There are but few men in this world who see their duty, 
still less that perform it. You have had the will, and courage to 
see and do yours. And I doubt not the same true heart and mind 
that has guided you heretofore, guides you now. The good you 
have done is immeasurable ; if you do not get your reward in 
this world, doubt not, there be one in heaven. 

Burbank. Well, all that will do. (Aside) I don't feel just now 
like skipping over there to see. 

Mrs. W. You speak almost as though you feared the world were 
ungrateful. My daughter and I have just discussed the matter, 
I want to make the following proposition, but before I do so, I 
warn you, I shall not accept a refusal. One week from to-day, — 
next Monday, my daughter and I give a reception at our house, 
your ward,— yonr daughter, let us call her, will, and must be there 
as my guest of honor and protege, and shall make her debut into 
the best society, under my care and guidance, and if you will per- 
mit it, we will call on her this evening. 



— 12 — 

Burbank. (Delighted) What? You will do that ? Why Mrs. and 
Miss Wilson, you have solved the problem, and nothing could 
make nae happier. I am going to take it upon myself to answer 
for her, she will be there ! (They are preparing to leave.) And by 
the bye, I guess I may as Well give you that ten thousand ; (sitting 
down at desk and writing check). 

Mrs. W. Mr. Burbank ! 

Burbank. This is such a little amount (scratching his head) and 
there is more where this came from. (Holding out check to Mr. 
Holland.) This, I can truthfully say, is the first gift that I have 
ever made that under the guise of Philanthropic work, is for value 
received. (They try to thank him, but he pushes them to the door, 
and almost out). Good-bye, Good-bye. Come see me again, etc. 

Miss W. (To Holland and Mrs. W.) You all go on, I want to say 
a word to Mr Burbank, and I will catch up with you right away. 
(Exit Mrs. W. and Holland.) 

Miss W. (Quickly and excitedly taking both his hands.) You 
are the dearest, and best old darling I ever met in the world, and 
I want to give you a hug, (throwing arms around his neck) and a 
kiss. (Exits hastily). 

Burbank (Suddenly calling at the door). I ain't so old either. 
(Sadly) Kesumes writing at his desk. Money's good for some- 
thing anyway, but I have been a darned long time finding it out. 
)Enter Sidney Gordon. ) 

Gordon. (To Burbank). Good morning,— this is Mr. Cyrus 
Burbank ? 

Burbank. Yes Sir. 

Gordon. I,— er— called to see— whether I can see you for a few 
moments. 

Burbank. Is that all ?— Take a good look. 

Gordon. I did'nt mean I came up here to look at you, I want to 
speak to you. 

Burbank. (Continuing to write). Well go ahead and speak. 

Gordon. I am Sidney Gordon. I thought perhaps you would 
remember me. If you are so very busy, of course I can come 
again. (Burbank has looked up for the first time.) 

Burbank You Sidney Gordon ? Well, I'll declare ! Why your 
father and I were great friends for years. I am sorry you don't 
take after him, he was the boldest and ablest financier I ever met, 
while you, I have been told, can't do a thing but change your col- 
lar, cuffs, and necktie ten times a day, and spend money. 

Gordon. Very kind of your informant I am sure. While I am 
obliged to correct the statement, as to the number of times, I 
change my collars and cuffs a day, I have to admit I have spent 
some of my money rather freely, but that is all a thing of the past. 
I am going to be very steady, and reserved from now on. 

Burbank. Is that so, what to you intend to do ? Go into Wall 
Street, like your father did ? If that is your plan, let me warn you, 
out of friendship for your dead father, stay out. You can loose 
more there in five minutes, than you can spend with all of your 
extravagances in six months. 

Gordon. No ! my father's last words to me were, — "I have made 
enough for you to live a hundred years on, promise me you will 
never go into any speculation whatever", I gave him my word of 
honor,— and I have kept it* 

Burbank. Ah, he was a smart man 'til the last. Did he ever tell 
you, how he, John Wilson, and I, came to build the Delaware Short 
line, of which I am President ? 



— 13 — 

Gordon. No, he never did. I would like to hear the story. 

Burbank. Well, the plan was originally mine, and I secured th° 
right of way, John Wilson put up some of the money, and your 
father was to pull the wires. At that time your father was a large 
stockholder of the Hudson River Trunk Line, and with a few of 
his influential friends, was able to dictate the policy of that road. 
Of course we bonded the road for what it was worth at the begin- 
ning, but the stock of which there was only 100,000 shares, was di- 
vided in this manner. John Wilson and I got 10,000 shares each, 
and your father was given 20,000 shares outright, but we expected, 
and it was agreed among ourselves, that he was to get our little 9u 
mile road subsidized bij the Trunk Line, which would have run its 
earnings up to the top notch, and made all of our stock very valu- 
able. Well, he worked night and day, and had the matter so far 
arranged that the transfer was on the point of being completed 
when he took sick and died. And although Wilson and I have 
worked on the problem,— we have never been able to get the mat- 
ter back to the point that it was at his death, and we both now re- 
alize, that as long as we hold the majority of the stock ourselves, 
we wiil never succeed. 

Gordon. I am surprised you have never succeeded. I am not 
familiar with the stock myself, as it is all held for me, and I sup- 
pose it is voted by my attorney, Harland Fields, who attends to 
those matters for me. That reminds me I have'nt told you what I 
came up here for,— the fact is, I met a young lady once or twice in 
the park, and although I have asked a dozen fellows who she was, 
I have'nt been able to find anyone who knew her, or could intro- 
duce me because I am very anxious to meet her. 

Burbank. Well, it's no use coming up here to ask me ! I don't 
know a half dozen ladies in town. 

Gordon. Well, hold on a minute ! I think you must know this 
one, in fact every evening, after leaving the Park, she goes right 
straight to your house, and is let in at the front door by the servant. 

Burbank. What ? Is that the lady you mean ? Why she is just a 
girl, a little bit of a girl, and tell me sir what did you mean, how 
dared you follow her ? 

Gordon. I beg your pardon if I have offended ! I did not follow 
her in the exact meaniug of the word, I observed from a respectful 
distance which house she entered, and as to her being a "girl, a 
little but of a girl," why the young lady I refer to is a yonng lady, 
and nDt a girl, although she may have been a girl a year ago. 

Burbank. (Crossly). Is it the custom for ladies to give out hand 
bills informing the general public where she lives, so that anybody 
that happens to be in the park -will be informed ? 

Gordon. (Sharp). No, it is not ? 

Burbank. Then what are you worryirg yourself about the mat- 
ter so for ? 

Gordon. (Pleading). I want to meet her,— I want to know her,— 
I want you to tell her you know me, and I want you to ask her 
whether you can introduce me, and whether I can call, that's all, 
—now do you understand ? 

Burbank. (Dryly). Yes, I am sorry ta say I am beginning to 
understand. Now young man to be frank, I don't know you— I 
never saw you before in my life, you have never been identified 
here ! I don't know anything about your habits, or companions, 
and as to my niece, she is my niece, you understand, she is very 
young yet, and she wont know any more about you than I do, un- 
less she can remember the color of your eyes, or how youjpart your 
hair. 



— 14 — 

Gordon. (Sharp). Well, old man, that's enough— you need'nt 
say a word more. I came here determined to do what was right, 
but it's evident you are not disposed to meet me in the right spirit. 
I'll come up and see you again in the morning, perhaps by that 
time you will have reconsidered the matter. 

Burbank. (Aside). "Old man", I have'nt licked anybody since 
I knocked the stuffins out of that cab driver for running over a 
cat, but I believe I can lick him. (Aloud) Oh, just hold on a 
minute, I know how to solve it Do you know Miss Edith Wilson ? 

Gordon. (Greatly confused^. Yes- 

Burbank. On her visiting list ? 

Gordon. Ye- yes- 

Burbank. Well, next Monday evening, my niece will make her 
debut at Mrs. Wilson's, and if you are there I will be pleased to 
introduce you provided you have'nt changed your mind by that 
time. 

Gordon. (Aside). Ghee whiz, one whole week. (Aloud) Who is 
going to take her ? 

Burbank- (Tapping Jds chest proudly) This gentleman. 

Gordon. I shall be there unless I am in the morgue, or grave- 
yard. I am ever so much obliged, come, let's shake hands. (They 
shake hands). I hope I have'nt wasted too much of your valuable 
time. Good morning. (Exit Gordon.) 

Burbank. He is a pretty square sort of a fellow. I tried my best 
to rile him, treated him pretty rough, but he was too smooth tor 
me. I wonder if his father also coached him 'beware of quarrels." 
(Rtturns to desk and begins writing.) (Enter John H. Wilson. Calls 
as he enters.) 
Wilson. Hello old man, how are you this morning? (They shake hands.) 

Burbank. (Testily.) Old man— you are the third this morning, 
can't you call me something else ? 

Wilson. Why, what's the matter ? I've been calling you old man 
every morning for the last twelve years 

Burbank Well, you'll have to swear off— call me Cyrus— call me 
Cy. I'll call you John. 

Wilson. All-right that's a go just to think though it took you 
twelve years to make up your mind to tell me. 

Burbank. No, I never thought of it before this morning. 

Wilson. What do you think Rapid Transit is going to do ? 

Burbank. You are on the inside, besides I am hardly interested, 
what do you think about it ? 

WiUon. Well, some of us are going to try and make it move up 
if we can— you might buy 5ouO snares to help lift. 

Burbank. I have some confidence in your judgment. I'll do it. 
By the by, we have the election of officers of the Delaware Short 
Lines Tuesday morning. Guess you will be there (Pause.) 

Wilson. You seem to have Harland Field's proxy in your vest 
pocket. You will be the next President again without my showing 
up. I have been thinking of turning my 40,000 shares loose, as it 
does not seem we can do what we want with the road, but of course, 
I will give you the first option of buying. 

Burbank. (Seriously). (After a short pause.) I have been want- 
ing to buy your interests for several years, and you know it, but to 
tell you the truth, and this must be confidential, I want to get out 
of it myself,— not that I have'nt a conviction the Trunk Line will 
have to absorb it sooner or later at our figures, but because I have 



— 15 — 

made up my mind to quit plotting, fighting, and scheming, arrange 
my affairs as safely as I can, and retire from active business en- 
tirely. 

Wilson. You don't say so ? Well you are a man of ability, but 
it's always a good thing to know when to quit. 

Burbank. Do you think you could handle the 40,000 shares ? 

Wilson. Yes, it is a fair investment, in fact at 80, I'll take them 
now. 

Burbank. No, you won't. (Pause) Not a point under par. (Pause). 

Wilson. You'll have to excuse me. 

Bnrbank. (SJiort.) Excused you are 

Wilson. (Laughingly.) We are as far from a settlement as ever 
—I guess it will go on like this for two years more. 

Burbank. Well, come now what do you think they are worth ? 

Wilson. I told you— I don't think we can ever agree— I'll give 
you 85. 

Burbank. You seem disposed to buy and not to buy for $95.00 a 
share, you can have the 40,000 shares, and that offer is good for 
rive minutes. 

Wilson. I don't know whether I could raise the funds easily even 
at 85, but at 95 I won't even try. 

Burbank. No danger about being unable to raise the money, the 
road is improving of its own accord without the Trunk Line sub- 
sidizing it. 

Wilson Well, I'll sleep on it. (Gets up, shake hands and exit. 
(Returns almost at once before Burbank has moved.) 

Wilson. You remember General Grant's famous statement, "I 
will fight it out on these lines if it takes six months", I justthought 
of that as I stepped out, so decided to come back, otherwise I don't 
think it will ever be settled. I'll make you one final offer. $90 00 
accept, or decline you can buy mine or sell yours. It's to be settled 
right now, this morning, or never. What do you say ? 

Burbank. Can you pay spot cash ? 

Wilson. ( Very cautiously.) I don't think I can. 

Burbank- (After a moment's thought). I'll accept your offer of 
$90 00 a share for my 4o,000 shares, delivery and payment to be 
made Wednesday of next week, ten days from to-day, at eleven 
o'clock in the morning at your office. 

Wilson. Why do you stipulate ten days ? 

Burbank. To give you the time to raise the money, and because 
I never from an old custom, make any large transaction without 
10 days being understood. 

Wilson. Oh, very well, if you want it that way, let it go. Draw 
up the agreement. 

Burbank. Turns to desk and writes. 

Burbank. (Reads.) "In consideration of one dollar, to me in 
hand paid, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, and in 
further consideration of the sum of Ninety Dollars for each and 
every share to be paid on delivery of stock, I hereby agree to de- 
liver to John H. Wilson at his office, 46 Nassau Street,— on the2ist 
day of November, 189—, between the hours of 11 A. M., and 12 M., 
40,000 shares of the capital stock of the Delaware Short Line Rail- 
road Company. Total consideration, $3600,001, of which is $3,600,000 
is yet unpaid. Issued in duplicate, Cyrus Burbank. 

(Hands to Wilson.) 

Wilson. Accepted. 

(Signs) Jno. H. Wilson." 

(Burbank keeps one copy and hands Wilson one copy.) 



-16 — 

Wilson. Well, Cy, I'm a pretty good customer, won't you come 
open a bottle of champagne ? 

Burbank. No, by Jingo, you have fleeced me, take a cigar, and 
get out, Iiiav'nt finished opening my mail. (He opens a drawer, 
takes out box cigars He and Wilson each take one,— Wilson lights 
match, and holds for Burbank, both smoke up — shake hands.) 

Wilson. Well, I'll see you in the morning. 

Burbank. Good-bye John. (Exits Wilson.) 

( Burbank takes a seat at desk, takes up pen, but instead of writing, looks up 
at blank wall, and puffs smoke, appears thoughtful, annoyed, then uneasy; final- 
ly, angry, gets up, puts his hands behind his back, and walks up and down very 
thoughtfully. I wonder if John Wilson came here with the intention 
of buying that stock ? (Pause.) (Continues walking.) I wonder if Jno. 
Wilson came here to buy that stock at any price ?— I wonder if Jno. 
H. Wilson could have formed a combine to subsidize that road 
without letting me know a thing a oout it. and then have the brass 
to snap up my stock,— of course if he has, I have been a big fool, 
a very big fool. He knows very well that I have borrowed nearly 
three million on it, he knows very well that I will have to pay back 
to the banks nearly every dollar he pays me. 

I wonder if Jno. H. Wilson remembers that not less than three 
times in the last ten years, when he could not get a dollar when he 
needed it the most, and when financial disaster stared him in the 
face, that, I, Cyrus Burbank, his friend, his old comrade, the Phil- 
anthrophist, the millionare, came to his rescue, and saved him 
ffom bankruptcy and dishonor ? 

Why, whose plan was it ? Mine. Who got the right of way ? I 
did. Who gave Jno. Wilson the chance of his life I did. I have 
been his friend from first to last. Ah, pshaw,this is all my imagina- 
tion, he would'nt treat me so,he would'nt reaped all the grain and 
leave me the chaff. No, no, I'm getting foolish. John is fair and 
square, and true as steel. 

Terry. (Shrieks.) (Foodsteps heard running through the hall.) (Terry enters, 
faceflushed, collor crushed, etc.) Mr. Burbank, Delaware Short Line is 
way up. (Shouting out on street. 

Burbank. (Shrieks.) What ? 

Terry. People fighting for it like ra id, only one thousand shares 
on the exchange, and it's changed hands fifty times everybody 
says you are a wizard, a Napoleon, and a whole lot of other tine 
names. (Enter Harland Fields, also excited, prespiring, folloiced by two news- 
paper importers. ) 

Fields. (Grasping Burbank 's hand and wringing it joyously.) Let me con- 
gratulate you, you are a wizard, a wonder, the people are righting 
for Delaware Shortline Stock like mad. Why |it was'nt 15 minutes 
ago, that the news got out Trunk Line and Delaware were to con- 
solidate, and upon the terms demanded by you- The Trunk Line 
men were down there bidding for the stock. Yes sir, I want to con- 
gratulate you, you have planned the matter for years, and now are 
crowned with victory and success. (Shouting and rumbling outside con- 
tinues.) 

1st Rep. Mr. Burbank, do you mind saying whether the consoli- 
dation of Trunk Line and Delaware, will lead to good results ? 

Burbank. The combine will improve the earnings, and reduce the 
expense of both roads. 

Rep. How long have you worked for the present results ? 

Burbanks. Three years. 

Rep. How much will you make by the deal ? 

Bnrbank. Several millions. 



— 17 — 

Rep. Thanks, that's all. (Exit 1st Reporter.) 

2nd Rep. Mr. Burbank, the Bears say that you have'nt got ii 
share of Delaware stock to your name,— that you have sold out ? 

Burbank. I have 40,000 shares of Delaware Short Line Stock in 
the vault of the Union Trust Company, not one share of which has 
ever left my possession. (Sits down and writes.) I make this state- 
ment over my signature, which has always stood for honesty and 
truth. (Hands Reporter pope : 
Rep. Thanks. (Rushes out.) 

Enter two Farmers and Preachers with hand satchels. 
Preacher. Is Mr. Cyrus Burbank in the office ? 

Burbank. Yes sir, what do you want ? (Rumbling and Shouting 
continues.) 

Preacher. Well sir, you see we've called to see him on a little 
business, me and Brother Jones (pointing to first Farmer.) armer Jones 
bows, and Burbanks shakes his hand), and Brother Simon, (pointing to se- 
cond Farmer), (Brother Simon shuffles forward, and shakes hands), we have 
been appointed a committee of three by the citizens of Conner's 
Flats to come to New York to attend to a little business. 

Farmer J. As a delegation from the City of Conner's Flats, we 
have come to the City of New York to call on all of the good people. 

Farmer S. And as we heard you were a very good man, we 
thought we would call on you first. 

Burbank. Well, gentlemen, in what manner can I serve you, 
please be brief, as I have some very important business to attend 
to. (Fields walks out of the door. Burbanks calls to him ,) (he stops.) (Very 
earnestly ) Fields — come back in two minutes, (looks at watch), I have 
something of very great importance to tell you 

Fields. I am just going to the next office, and will be back right 
away. 

Burbank. Now gentlemen. 

Deaoon. You see Mr. Burbank, we raised seven hundred dollars 
to build our church, but there is a mortgage of three hundred dol- 
lars on the church, and the organ, and the man says he is going to 
take the organ, and sue us all for the balance on the church. 

Farmer J So we was appointed a, committee to come to New 
York to see the good people. 

Farmer S. And go round and see them all, and see if we could'nt 
raise the money to save the organ, and pay up the church. 

Burbank. In other words, you need three hundred dollars, and 
you have come to New York to get it. 

All. That's it,— Yes sir, etc. 

Burbank. About how many people do you suppose you would 
have to see ? 

Bro. S. Well, the Deacon, he calculated about 250, but Bro. Jones 
and myself calculated about 300. 

Burbank. (Sitting down at desk and beginning to write. The time it would 
take to find 300 people would be worth Three Trinity Churches, 
and Half of Central Park. How should I make this check out ? 

Bro. S. Well, you better make it out to the order of all three 
of m. 

Burbank. (Fiercely.) What ? Do you expect me to waste a quart 
of ink. Here,— Chemical National Bank,— pay Cash Three Hun- . 
dred Dollars,— hands check to Bro. Simon. Bro. I imon hands it to Jones, — 
Jones hands it to the Deacon. 

Deacon. Mr. Burbank. (Rumbling outside continued.) 



— 18 — 

Burbank. You will have to excuse me I am very busy. 

Bro. J. Mr. Burbank,— 

Bro. S. Mr. Burbank, — Burbank silences (hem, and he and Terry crowd 
them to the door.) 

Bro. J. By gosh, I am going to thank you, you are the dogonest. 
fairest, squarest, goldonest, persistent man I ever knowed. If you 
will come down Christmas I'll just give you the finest dinner you 
ever eat, and mother will be thickled to death 

Burbank. {Much affected) (smiles, shake hands with all.) Would you like 
to see me down for Christmas, sure enough ? 

Jones. Would I ? 

Burbvnk. Well, I'll accept your invitation, if I'm alive I'll be 
there ! 

Bro. J. Thank you Sir ! I'll expect you now and be prepared such 
as it is. ( The three disappear down hall, Burbanks returns left centre, stands 
musing. Terry goes to door calls softly. ) 

Terry. You better hurry Deacon ! the bank might bust. 

Deacons. (Voice off rear) Beckon? (Ter y shakes his head) Yes ! (Bur- 
bank walks to left centre, shows some excitement as he talks to himself. ) 

Burbank. (aside) So Wilson has turned on me. He thinks that I 
will just lay down and not even kick. Oh, they think I can't fight 
any more, but I'll fool him. ( Very slowly as if studying the matter out in 
his own mind.) Next Wednesday morning I will have to deliver my 
40,000 shares. Stock sold at 90 that on to-day's market is worth 
250. But just wait a minute, Mr Wilson don't be so fast. Next Tues- 
das morning (smiling to himself), one day before I deliver the stock, the 
stockholders hold their meeting. (Short pause). Yes, this is what I 
will have to do— sell all the stock I can place at to-day's figure— 
Beject the offer to consolidate, and wreck the Boad— by issuing 
bonds, voting big salaries and doing everything I can to make that 
stock take a tumble. I'll be through with the road after that, and 
they can have it, but at quite a different figure. (Laughs.) Worth 
two hundred and fifty to-day. I wonder what it will be worth 
Wednesday evening at two o'clock, won't be able to give it away.He 
won't feel so good Wednesday morning between 11 and 12 o'clock 
when I walk in to deliver. (Enter Harland Fields ) 

Field*. Hope I have'nt kept you waiting ? 

Burbank. No, I've been busy every minute, come here, (they walk 
together to front contre). I have been waiting to see about this matter 
for some time, and I know I will give a pleasant surprise; you 
know Fields I am getting old, what you do not know, is, I am go- 
ing to retire from Wall Street, — now I have'nt so many friends but 
that I can remember all of their faces, and I always considered 
you as one of my be. c t, besides I admire your pluck, and energy, 
and I do not think the day very far off when you can count your 
millions.— You know next Tuesday is the election of officers of the 
Delaware Short Line, the Directors to also transact any other 
business that may come up before it? I do not intend to be re- 
elected President' again as it requires too much of my time, and 
would interfere with my plan to retire. I have, therefore, decided 
to elect you Preoident. 

Fields. (Amazed and overwhelmed). Why Mr. Burbank I will never 
be able— 

Burbank. (Interrupting). Never mind any thanks- I only must 
make two requests. 

Fields. Anything you ask. 

Burbank. The first is, that you are positively not to mention to a 
single, living soul that you and I are to vote together on the Pre- 



— 19 — 

sidency, although we have always done so before, but not by agree- 
ment. 

Fields. I readily promise that. 

Burbank. The second is, that you and I are to vote together solid 
on everthing that comes up for a vote. 

Fields. Why, you know I have always done that, and will give 
you my promise. 

Burbanks. Now Fields I have but one thing to ask you to bear in 
mind, which is,— I am willing to do all in my power for you ; if you 
stand by me your mark is made. 

Field*. I will never be able to half thank you. 

Enter Ethel Jordan. (Fields steps aside and talks to Terry.) 

Burbank. {Sees her as she enters, greets her very earnestly, taking both her 
hands). Why Ethel, how nice of you to come down, what brought 
you here ? 

Ethel. I had to come to town to do some shopping, and so came 
in to see if you would'nt take me to lunch with you- 

Burbank. Will. I? will I? well I should say we will. (Turning 
to Fields) Harland I want to introduce you to my niece Miss Jordan. 
(Fields steps forward.) (Introducing them,) Mr. Harland Fields,— Miss 
Ethel Jordan, (they bow and smile) Now we are going out to have 
lunch, would'nt you like to join us. 

Fields. I should like to very much, but I have promised to take 
lunch with Mr. Sidney Gordon 

Bnrbank. Well, may be he would join us ? 

Ethel. Oh, no uncle. 

Burbank. Why not ? 

Ethel. They may have some business to talk over. 

Burbonk. Business be hanged! But I guess you are right. Well, 
I will have to attend to something first, it will only take me a 
minute, you had better not wait on us Fields, (Gets Ethel a seat, she 
sits down in centre). (Burbank sits at his desk and writes.) 

Fields. (Aside) Confound that engagement. (Starts for door). 

Burbank. (Looking up). Fields (very slowly) don't forget, what— you 
—are— supposed-- to— remember. 

Fields. I wont, (bows to Ethel) Good morning. (Exit). 

Burbank. (Rises from desk), (sealed leiter in each hand, calls) Terry. 

Terry. (Leaving his desk). Yes sir. 

Burbank. Take these two letters, deliver them to their respective 
addresses. Don't lose them, see that each man gets the one ad- 
dressed to him, and don't let the first man you see, see the ad- 
dress of the second letter. 

Terry. (Taking letters) Alright sir. (Exit.) 

Bmbank. (Aside) I now have started the machinery to work. I 
have instructed two of my old brokers to sell Delaware Short Line 
for my account at the highest price, Tuesday morning we smash 
the road, Tuesday evening I buy the stock for a song, Wednesday 
morning I deliver it to Mr. Wilson at 90, and make him feel sorry 
that he ever went back on me. 

Ethel, although I have made two philanthropic donations this 
morning, I have planned more rascality at the same time than has 
entered my brain, all combined in the iast twenty years, and I am 
afraid, if you knew it all, you would'nt kiss me any more. 

Ethel. (Rising) Yes, I would, you know I would, and besides that, 
I wont believe it, and I'll kiss you twice. 



— 20 — 

Burbank. (Kisses her twice), goes and gets his hat and coat). (Aside) Ras- 
cality has paid me a pretty big dividend. I love that girl I love 
the very ground she walks on. Oh, if I could only hope she could 
love me how happy I would be. 
Enter Terry, goes to his desk, etc. 

Burbank. (To Ethel). Come my little ray of sunshine, (He holds out 
his right hand, ichich she takes, they icalk to the door, Burbank turns, and calls 
i dck) Terry, we are going to Stewarts for lunch, if there is anything 
of importance, you know where to find me. 

Terry. Yes sir. (Exit Burbank and Miss Jordan.) 
He has the happiest smile on his face I have seen in two years. 
She is enough to turn any man's head, and I would like to shake 
her hand just once myself. 

Enter Fields and Gordon in haste. 

Fields. Terry ! 

Terry. Yes sir ! 

Gordon. (Grabbing left arm) Terry ! 

Terry. Yes sir. 

Fields, Gordan. (Together) Where did Mr. Burbank go? 

Terry One at n time gentleman, one at a time. 

Fields. Quick. 

Gordon. Hurry man, can't you speak ? 

Terry. Down the elevator 

Fields. But where to ? 

Terry. Lunch,— Of course,— No Charity Bazaars blooming now. 

Gordon. Yes, lunch of course, we know that, but where too ? 

Terry. Why the Restaurant. 

Fields. Yes, but which one. 

Terry. Oh ! which one ? 

Fields and Gordon. (Together) Yes of course, which one ? 

Terry. Butler's I think he said. 

Fields Gordon. (Together) Thanks much obliged. (Exit together in haste.) 

Terry. Gee ! but they are easy? off on the wrong scent ! They'll 
break my neck if they ever get back (Goes to the door culling after them). 
You'll have to hurry '! 

CURTAIN. 

.AOT II. 



Place. Residence of Jno. H. Wilson. 
Time. — Monday evening. —Reception and Dance in progress. Dance and Music 
progresses at left arch. — Garden at right arch. — Stage [arranged as con- 
servatory. — Place very brilliantly lighted, and displaying elegance and 
wealth in every respect. — Large plants in tubs to right and left. — Rustic 
bench to left also circular benches around the tubs of plants. 
Enter Rev. Holland, and Mrs. Wilson from the garden, right arch. Mrs. 
W. hand on arm 

Mrs. W. All my nerveusness is over,— everything seems to be 
going on very well, and unless something unforseen should happen, 
my reception will be a success (Takes seat, Rev. Holland stands in front 
of her.) 



— 21 — 

Rev. H. Everything is tastefully arranged, you deserve much 
credit for your excellent management. 

Enter Sidney Gordon from left arch {Ball Room), glances at bench at left, al- 
so looks behind benches, around the plants in tubs, evidently looking for someone. 

Rev. 11. (Smiling) Are you lost. 

Gordon. {Smiling) No, I am the searching party. {Looks off towards 
garden ) 

Mrs. W. {Rises) What are you looking for? {beginning to look on 
the ground in search of some possible lost artvcle.) 

Gordon. ( Walking toward garden arch) Oh, don't disturb yourself, I'll 
go out to the garden {Exit right.) 

Mrs. W. He seemed very much annoyed. I wonder what could 
have distressed him ? 

Rev. H. (Laughing) He is evidently hunting for his partner for 
the next dance — (seriously) your daughter I presume. 
. Mrs. W. {Shaking her head negatively). He could'nt have been so dis- 
tressed about her, he carries his engagement rather lightly and so 
does she for that matter. 

Rev. H. (Seriously and hesitatingly). Do you think they love each 
other very much ? 

Mrs. W. {Coldly). Why do you ask ? 

Rev. H. Because— I love your daughter. 

Mrs. H. I am sorry, very sorry — you know she is engaged to Mr. 
Sidney Gordon. 

Rev. H. Yes, I know but— {Mrs. W. steps away to meet Miss J. as they 
enter.) 

Enter Miss Ethel Jordan between Sydney Gordon and Cyrus Burbank, from 
Right. 

Mrs. W. Did you have to hunt very far ? 

(Holland goes over to ball room door — looking in— setms impatienl for some 
one to come out.) 

Gordon. I thought I'd never find her, you know— Showing her 
the garden way over at the dark corner. 

Miss J. And I was so interested I almost forgot I had the next 
dance engaged. {This quizingly at Gordon. Gordon looks hurl.) 

Burb. Well, why don't you two go dance it ? I have'nt finished 
showing the garden. 

Gordon. The music is not playing. 

Burb. Well, go start the music up. 

Gordon. I'm in no hurry. 

Mrs. W. Why don't you dance it yourself Mr. Burbank, there 
are ever so {crossing over to Burb.) many pretty girls inside ? (Jord. steps 
back to Gordons side ) 

Burb. What, I dance ? Why I have'nt been on a floor in twenty- 
five years. 

Miss J. {Going up to Burbank, and putting hand on his shoulder). But you 
know how to dance, you know you do, and I have purposely left 
the second dance after the next, which is a waltz, open, and I want 
to dance it with you. {Holland comes talks to Gordon.) 

Burb. But Ethel, what would people think, if I was to begin 

dancing now ? 
Jord. We don't care what people think now, do we, and— 
Burb. But, look how many nice young chaps there are who want 

that dance. 



— 22 — 

Jordon. I think I have something to say, as to who is to get it. 

Burb. All right its a go ! I will take it ! Gordon scratches head, Hol- 
land pats on back.) 

Jordon. Now its engaged {handling her programme) write your name 
down (iudicating on card) there. 

Burb. (Taking card) I can't begin to write my name on that line — 
(writing and spelling aloud) 0— y— r— u— s B— u— r— b — a — n — k. 

Gordon. (To Ethel) Let us get a glass of punch before the music 
starts— that long walk in the garden must have made you thirsty. 

Ethel. (Nodding her head affectionately to Burbank) No it did'nt ! (Takes 
Gordon's proffered arm walks him into ball room. ) Exit Gordon and Jordon. 

Miss Edith Wilson appears at the ball room arch-way on the arm of Harla ml 
Fields. Rev. Holland walks up to meet them. Fields appears to bow, and ex- 
cuse himself, and returns to ball room. Miss Wilson walks in on Holland's arm. 
Miss Wilson takes seat left, Holland appears to ask her to go to the garden. 

Burb. Now, Mrs. Wilson you got me into this, and I think I shall 
ask you to serve half of the penalty. 

Mrs. W. In what manner pray ! 

Burb. Why, that dance— don't you think you could just waltz 
with me a few steps out here to see whether I have forgotten every 
step I knew ? 

Mrs. W. Why certainly I will, but what will we do for music ? 

Burb. (Annoyed) Is it necessary ? 

Mrs. W. Not absolutely, but— (-Miss Wilson rises). 

Burb. I'll remedy that just wait a moment (Turns to Holland and 
Miss Wilson who are arm in arm approaching the right arch. ) r—ev — a M r. 
Holland, can you whistle ? 

(Holland and Miss Wilson stop abruptly, look at one another somewhat confused 
and do not appear to understand what is meant by the inquiry). 

Holl (Smiling.) What do you mean ? 

Burb. What do I mean ? Why did'nt you understand my ques- 
tion, I asked whether you could whistle ? 

Holl. (Half amused, half angry) That's a funny question— I could as 
a boy. 

Burb. (Sareastically) That would'nt do us any good if you "could 
as a boy", we want you to whistle now. 

Holl, {Turning his back and endeavoring to walk io the arch) My whistling 
days are past. 

Burb. (Running up to him, and taking hold of his cuff). Here, that won't 
to, trying to run off were'nt you. (seriously and argumenlally ) Now 
Doctor you would'nt go back on me like that, I'm in trouble, and 
I want you to help me out, here is Mrs. Wilson more than willing 
to help, and you trying to run away, that's a nic .-$ way to go back 
on an old friend, why I thought better of you ! 

Holl. I don't understand ! Just thought you were joking, what 
do want ? (all three came forward) 

Mrs. W. You see Mr. Burbank has not danced in a long while. 

Burb. Twenty-five years ! 
Mrs. W. We are going to have a little rehearsal out here. 
Bueb. And we have no music. 
Mrs. W. I am going to dance with him. 

Burb. And we want you to whistle, start her up. (Goes up to Mrs. 
W. puts right arm around her waist). 

Miss W. That's a capital idea {To Holland) I'll help you! 



— 23 — 

Holl. (Aside) I'll make a pretty spectacle standing here whist- 
ling a horn pipe. 

Buab. (Still holding Mrs. Wilson) Start her up Doctor ! 

Holl. What shall it be? 

Mrs. W. (A nice waltz. 

Burb. Yes, a nice one. 

Miss W. (Encouragingly) Try "Just one Girl". (Holland begins to 
whistle " ''just one girl"). Miss Wilson whistles along. Burbank and 
Mrs. W. begin to waltz roughly at first, after a few steps smoothly. 
Holland takes Miss Wilson's right hand (his left) they swing hands and 
look at one another affectionately. They stop abruptly , jerk back hands, 
both look in back of them, as if they heard someone approaching, ical- 
zing ceases. 

Burb. (Crossly) Why did you stop ? 

Miss W. Thought we heard someone coming. 

Burb. Is that all (again placing his arm around Mss. W.) I just 
had a good start,— try it again ! 

(They begin whistling, and swing hands, again icalzing continues.) 

(Enter Sidney Gordon, from left, gives a long whistle waking and 
whistling stops,— hands part. 

Burb. Now what do you want ? 

Gordon. (Appearing greatly amazed stands with his hands in his 
pockets) What's all this? (All look a little confused except Burbank, 
who appears indignnnt ) 

Burb. What does it look like. 

Gordon, (Disregarding Burbanks inquiry and appearing to be 
talking to himself. Burbank and Wilson Side Show— greatest show 
on earth— [counting the attractions on his fingers, looking at Mrs. 
Wilson — a dancing hostess (looking at Holland) a whistling parson 
—looking at Miss Wilson[—& real embarrassed girl, [looking and 
pointing at Burbank) and a real (hesitates repeats), and a real 
[hesitates again in apparent terror, or overwhelmed astonishment and 
backs toward the ball room door) (imitating showman) Come every- 
body,— the greatest show on earth— general admission 10c, chil- 
dren half price— the largest and best list of wonderful attractions 
ever exnibited in this country. 

(The crowd appear to gather at the Ball Room arch, at which Gor- 
don appears to explain something amidst much laughing.) 

Burb. (in rage) If that boy brings that crowd out here, I'll roast 
him on a slow fire. (They gather at right). 

Mrs. W. I think I shall have to look to the comfort of my other 
guests- [Exits garden arch ) 
Holl. Shall we go into the garden also ? 

Miss W. No sir, we will all just sit here, and converse, and not 
take any notice of anything, or anyone. [They take seats at right 
circular bench, Miss Wilson in the middle, Burbank on her right, — 
Holland left, and begin an animated sham conversation.) 
Eater Gordon, followed by Harland Fields, Mr. Wilson, Miss Ethel Jordan, and 
other ladies and gentlemen, etc , Come forward on tip toe — Gordou appear- 
ing to caution them to be quiet, and not go too close, etc. Gordon draws crow^ 
up before Holland, aud points to h m, and the crowd gaze at him with appar- 
ant wonderment. Gordon turns his back on Holland, and gives a mimic lecture 
to tlie crowd. Holland appears indifferent. Gordon mimics Holland's 
whistling "Just one Girt" , sways his body slightly, and begins to swing his 



— 24 — 

left arm, Holland shows confusion as left arm swings. (Crowd laugh) Gor- 
don takes crowd before Miss Wilson, Imitates her whistling, slightly false 
and in snatches. She smiles sweetly and with appareni indifference, Gordon 
swings his right hand. Miss Wilson appears confused. Gordon takes 
crowd before Barbank appears indifferent. Gordon repeats his mimic lec- 
ture. Burbank hunts for cigar, lights and smokes it, gazes fiercely at Gor- 
don turns his back on Barbank, and begins to prance up, and down, [crowd 
laugh) Burbank stands up, turns around, and sits down again, trying to 
hide Ms confusion, but fails. As Burbank resumes his seat, Hol- 
land and Miss Wilson laugh also, music begins tojplay in the Ball 
Room— Gordon discontinues Ids prancing, and he and Miss Jor- 
dan run to the Ball Boom followed by Fields, Wilson and others. 
Gordon. (Discontinuing prancing) This is my dance. 
Jordan. Yes— (nuts out her hand, Gorkon takes hank as they run) 
Burb. (Rising) He is the biggest scamp that ever drew breath. 
Miss W. What shall we do to get even ? 
Burb. Hanging is too good for him. 
Miss W. You know I am engaged to him, don't yon. 
Burb. You are engaged to him ? 
Miss W. Yes. 

Burb. You are engaged to marry him ? 
Miss W. Yes Sir. 

Burb. You don't say so (laughing). Why that's news to me. 
(aside) good news. I am glad to hear it (aside) I should say I am, 
let me congratulate you (aside) Shake hands with yourself old boy. 
Miss W. Your congratulations come, I fear, too late. 
Burb. (Very cheerful) Oh, not too late, let me hope. If they are 
somewhat tardy, you should understand that a man like I, who 
never hears any society chat, or gossip might live a life time with- 
out ever hearing of your, or anyone elses engagement. 

Miss W. You do not understand me— I mean, that from hence- 
forth everything is off. 

Burb. (Surprised). You don't mean to say that you are going to 
break the engagement ? 

Miss W. That is exactly what I mean. (Holland rises abruptly, 
walks to right arch, stands facing garden.) 

Burb. But that would be awful-unheard of. Why you would'nt 
think of doing anything like that— that was only a little practical 
joke— I was only joking myself, when I said "hanging was too 
good for him", why that should be all laughed off, and forgotten. 
(Holland walks back). 

Rev. H Perhaps Miss Wilson has other reasons of a more se- 
rious and deeper nature than that practical joke. Mr. Gordon has 
position and riches it is true, and socially theirs would be a bril- 
liant match, still that unalterable devotion, and fervid love re- 
quisite to make a perfectly happy home may be missing. 

Burb. (Some heat) Where did you get that cracked brained idea 
a fine preacher you are. 

Holl (some heat) Sir. 
(Miss Wilson puts her handkerchief to eyes softly crying) 

Burb (with heat) Don't sir me ! go out there in the garden and 
watch the little birdies skip along the fence,— you sir, are almost 
persuading this young lady to take a step that I firmly believe to 



— 25 — 

be wrong. Now Miss Wilson, although our friendship is not very 
old, I am going to presume upon it far enough to say— whatever 
you do' think well before doing it. 

Miss W. I have thought. 

Burb. (Soft and pleading) Well, that don't hurt, think some 
more, there is a young man wealthy, healthy, and handsome, 
honorable and true. He has asked you* with a pure and noble 
heart to be bis wife, he has asked one whom he cannot help but 
love and admire— you are upon the point of breaking that promise, 
and with it, his future happiness, his heart and your own. 

Rev. H Mr. Burbank seems greatly interested in the matter. 

Burb. (Smilingly) Your Eeverence seems likewise greatly in- 
terested. 

Holl. I do not deny it, I am. (Enter Miss Jordan) {Conversation 
ceases— pause ) 

Miss J Uncle can you show me the rest of the garden now ? 

Burb. (Softly ) I have been waiting for that pleasure for the 
last half hour. (He offer his arm, they start for garden), to Miss 
Wilson) I leave you to his tender mercy, but' Doctor I warn you, 
beware. (They all laugh except Jordan). Exit Burb. and Jordan R. 

Holl. (Short wait) Miss Wilson there is something that I have 
been wanting to tell you a long— long while— something that con- 
cerns me— Very much— something— perhaps— that— does not con- 
cern you at all,— I have refrained— from expressing myself for 
many, sad and bitter— months on account — of your engagement— 
to Mr. Gordon —I thought you loved him— I thought he loved you, 
and I intended to keep mj lips sealed about my own love for ijou 
forever,— but— lately I have begun to think that your engagement 
to Mr. Gordon was not entirely a love affair, I know I am going 
into the matter much farther than I should, considering that you 
are still engaged to him, but after your statement this evening, I 
felt it would be a still greater wrong if I kept silent longer, Edith 
—I love you — (takes eeat) But I know neither your father nor 
mother would favor my suit. You told Mr. Burbank you had 
thought of the matter. 

Miss W. I had long ago made up my mind. 

Holl. And you— 

Miss W. Will ask Mr. Gordon to release me. 

Hsll. May I hope ? 

Miss W. You love me ? 

Holl. More than my life 

Miss W. (Tearfully) Neither papa nor mama will ever consent. 

Holl. I cannot give you as grand a home as the one you live in. 
If ever you consent to share mine. 

Miss W. A cottage will be good enough for me. 

Holl. Then your father and mother will never be asked. When 
will you see Mr. Gordon ? 

Miss W. I will speak to him to-night. 

Holl. To-morrow then you will be free— but only for a short time. 

Miss W. Will it seem so short ? 

Holl. One single day would seem very long to me, I have been 
in love with you so long, and never able to speak. 

Miss W- Now, neither of us must say a word to anyone. 

Holl. Not a word. 

(Enter Burbank and Jordan R. Garden.) 



— 26 — 

Miss W. (Going up to Ethel.) Are you enjoy ing yourself, Ethel ? 

Jordan. Ever so much. I havn't missed a dance, and Mr. Bur- 
bank has so entertained me, told me such amusing anecdotes, 
showed me the beautiful garden and flowers, and I have his name 
down for the dance after the next, a waltz. 

Miss W. I am so glad ; he can be an angel when he wants to be 
{taking BurbanVs hands) ; come, let us all go in and get some cham- 
pagne punch to celebrate. 

Burb. Celebrate what ? 

Miss W. (Embarrassed) Oh, anything. 

Burb. All the tears seem to have flown away. 

Wilson. I'll get real angry at you. 

Burb. Well, I just have to stay out here and smoke another 
cigar to quiet my nerves for that dance. If I should be awkward, 
the doctor would say I've been drinking;— you see them in doc- 
tors! 

Holl. Come along ; I'll try and take care of you- 

Jordan- (Approaching left to Burbank ) Won't you come ? 

Burb. (Shakes Ids head no) 

(Miss Wilson, Jordan and Holland enter ball room. 

Burb. I can't go in there. I don't want to meet John Wilson. 
He played me a mean, despicable trick, and I am going to have 
my revenge to-morrow. He hae lost a friend (smokes and medi- 
tates)— an old, old friend. To think that he should have gone 
behind my back! I can't and never will get this bitterness out of 
my heart,- it rankles here and makes me miserable, but let us for- 
get all that— to-morrow at the meeting all that will be settled, 
think of that dance — a waltz -, a glorious waltz with her— I didn't 
even have the courage to ask for it, —I thought she would enjoy it 
so much more with some of those pretty-faced beaux, — but, no sir, 
she just insisted on having it, — one long, dreamy waltz {puts Jiis 
arms around, an imaginary partner and waltzes around a few steps) ; 
oh, her eyes, what soft gentleness and love In every glance ! I took 
her out to the garden, and her little head rested so daintily right 
here on my arm, and her arm came through right here, and I felt 
it at my side, and I squeezed it just a little bit— yes, just a little 
bit, — I wonder if she can ever, and will ever love me,— that is. love 
me enough to be my wife — can such happiness ever be in store for 
me ?— I know now "that never at any time of my life have I ever 
known what real happiness was— now I but realize what supreme 
happiness could be. I told her how I came to promise I'd eat 
Christinas dinner at Conners Flats with Farmer Jones. I asked 
her would she go along, and she will I told her about the visit of 
the delegation and mimicked Brother Simon, and Brother Jones, 
and the poor old Methodist preacher, and then I repeated the invi- 
tation, and told her I would rather eat my Christmas dinner in a 
little log cabin farm house surrounded by clover fields, and the 
chickens, and the bees with a little mountain stream running down 
there at the foot of the hill, and Brother Jone's wife blushing with 
smiles and apologies for the finest butter and whitest biscuits, and 
the fattest old turkey- and lots of plum pudding— why, I'd rather 
eat my dinner with those plain people than sit down to the finest 
banquet surrounded by all the wealth and blood the East can 
boast, with champagne flowing like the evening tide. Then I re- 
called my last Christinas at home; oh, will I ever forget it? — 
there in that little, old, smoky kitchen,— there was father's chair, 
but it was empty ; he got drowned trying to save the stubborn old 
mule Betsy— how she used to kick!— There was Willie's chair — 
poor little brother dead not a year, how I did beat that 



— 27 — 

poor little fellow for telling where I got those apples ! No turkey 
that Christmas, no ; no turkey. I can't remember what all we did 
have. And there sat mother, her white hair parted in the middle 
and combed down on the side, and her eyes so tearful, yet brave 
and sad,— what a brute I must have been! I complained "beans 
for Christmas ?" and mother answered slowly, "The Lord has left 
me one son, and I thank Him, my boy. Perhaps next Christmas 
will shine on a brighter day for you." Ah, the next Christmas 
shone on a brighter day for her. Dear mother, how dearly I loved 
thee! The next Christmas I was alone. {Takes seat right behind 
(palms. John Wilson and Harland Fields appear on the door step of 
the ball room entrance ; they light and smoke cigars.) Here conies 
Wilson ; perhaps they will pass into the garden. 

(Enter Wilson and Fields. Burbank displays his different emotions throughout the 

following.) 

Wilson. Have you seen the improvements in the garden ? 
(Gordan and Edith Wilson cross from ball room to garden. Gordan looks bewil- 
dered. Miss W. cast down sadly.) 

Fields. Yes, I was out there a half hour ago. I think they are 
very fine.' (A short pause ; both smoke.) 

Wilson. I suppose you know the Delaware Short Line hold their 
meeting to-morrow ? 

Fields. (Puffs smoke before answering.) Yes ; I received the formal 
notice. 

Wilson. You will be there ? (Fields same business.) 

Fields. Yes. (Burbank shows his pleasure.) 

Wilson. Did you know that I have been up to your office to see 
you about it? (Burb. shows surprise.) 

Fields. No. 

Wilson. I have. (Burb. annoyed) 

Fields. Yes ? 

Wilson. Decided how you will vote for President? (Biwb. eager.) 

Fields. Havn't thought of the matter. (Burb. relieved.) 

Wilson. Have you heard the two roads are to combine ? 

Fields. I read it in the paper, although I know, of course, that 
the directors have never acted on the matter. 

Wilson., You know Burbank has sold out his entire interest 
(Burb., worried, rises) 

Fields. That was also reported in the papers, but I do not believe 
it. ( Burb. pleased. ) 

Wilson. You can believe it ; it is true ! (Burb. rises.) 

Fields. You don't tell me. 

Wilson, An absolute fact 

Ftelds. He will not be at the meeting then ? 

Wilson. Yes. (Burb. takes seat.) 

Fields. How is that ? 

Wilson. All hough he has sold the stock, he is not to deliver it 
until the day after the meeting. 

Fields. Oh, I see (Burb. pleased.) 

Wilson. Of course, he has no further interest in the road ? 

Fields. I— suppose— not. (Burb. smiles.) 

Wilson. But we can not prevent him from still voting his stock. 

Fields. I— suppose— not. 

Wilson. Of course you will vote with me should he attempt any- 
thing "ugly". (Burb. very uneasy.) 



— 28 — 

Fields {annoyed). I will be at the meeting to vote that stock and 
shall use my judgment, (Burb. very happy.) 

Wilson. No ; the matter must be arranged before the meeting. 

Fields. Did you say it "must be" ? 

Wilson. I repeat it, "must be!" {Burb. uneasy.) 

Fields. Is— that— so? "It must be,"— perhaps I havn't anything 
at all to say in the matter ? (Burb. delighled.) 

Wilson {coldly). Very little,- so little that it is hardly worth my 
while to talk to you about it. I thought, though, it was much bet- 
ter to go about the matter in a pleasant and gentlemanly way, 
than to proceed in a manner that might hurt and injure you. Be- 
fore you leave this house to night I want your pledge and promise 
upon your word of honor to vote with me on every proposition that 
may come up, which Burbank may oppose (Burb tager ) 

Fields. And if I refuse ? 

Wilson. What earthly reason can you have to refuse ? 

Fields I repeat, if I positively refuse to go pledged to vote with 
you, or anyone else for that matter,— (Burb. pleased, but very uneasy.) 

Wilson (angrily and threateningly). If you refuse I will do one of two 
things— or both :— I shall go inside, call out my future son-in-law, 
Mr. Sidney Gordan, who owns the stock (Burb. rises) and whose proxy 
to vote you hold, I will tell him that by the merest accident I have 
discovered, or have reason to suppose that his attorney and broker, Mr. 
Harland Fields contemj dates, fur some reason or other best known 
to himself, to oppose together with Mr. Cyrus Burbank a certain 
proposition to subsidize the Delaware Short Line with the Grand 
Trunk,— that Mr. Fields is probably prompted by some interest 
very valuable to himself, but not of much benefit to Mr Gordan's 
fortune. If he has any doubt in his mind, why, he can just attend 
the meeting himself, to see that his interests are best served. 
(Burb sits head bent ) 

Fields. Your insinuations as to my interests and my care of Mr. 
Sidney Gordan's fortune are very unfair and unjust to me, and I 
shall not rest until you apologize to me for them, or rue the day 
you ever uttered them. Mr. Burbank told me he intended to retire 
from Wall Street, that he no longer desired the Presidency,— he 
volunteered to elect me President, and, of course, I accepted the 
offer, and would have voted Gordan's shares for my own election. 
I did not pledge myself to vote against any proposition whatso- 
ever, and you might have had sense enough" to know that I would 
not hav© voted against any proposition, no matter what it might 
be. if I thought Mr Gordan's interests best served to accept it. 
(Burb. t head lower.) 

Wilson (smiling). It won't be necessary for me to have Mr. Gor- 
don revoke your power of attorney; to be candid with you, that is 
what I intended doing 

Fields (Hastily). Most certainly not! 

Wilson. It is evident I spoke severely and too hastily I will 
apologize now if you will let me. I will do more; if you will call it 
square and a thing of the past, I will vote for you for President 
also, and so reassure vou of the office- 

Fields You'll do that? 

Wilson. Here is my hand on it. (They shake hands. Burbank falls 
back on seat. Mrs Wilson appears at left bail room entrance. Wilson goes up 
to meet her. 

Fields (aside). Ah, what a trap old Burbank tried to lead me into ! 
He would have made me President, but it was my votes on the 
coming proposition he wanted. Well, thank goodness, I am safe; 
either way the cat falls, I shall be elected. 



J 



— 29 — 

Mrs. Wilson (calling). Are you coming? (Fields enters left arch. Exit 
Wilson and Fields. 

Burb. (slowly and with great effort rises from the reclining position, tries to stand, 
totters, sits down, tries again, succeeds.) Ruined, ruined — my entire fort- 
une gone in one, a great gulf. Fields has gone to the other side. 
Oh, my! how high that stock will go! How can I ever deliver ail 
I have sold? I won't have a dollar, not a dollar in the world. What 
will poor Ethel do ? We'll have to leave that lovely home. Oh, 
what a pity! all these doors will be closed to her then ; to-day I am 
a millionaire, she an heiress ;— to-morrow I a pauper, she depend- 
ent upon me ; and there are those ladies, the ones who are start- 
ing that orphan's home. I promised them five thousand dollars. 
What will I tell them ? what can I say ? Ladies, ladies, I— I (falls, 
or sits on bench sobbing in his hands; rises). I must compose myself ; why 
should Ethel's pleasure be marred ? Poor girl, she will hear it too 
soon. Oh, how can I hold myself up under the calamity! (Music 
in ball room begins to play sweet, clear waltz.) Listen, a waltz; it is ours. 
Oh ! this joy ! this happiness ! I will dance it, were it my last act ; 
no, no, she shall not know. She shall not know. 

(Ethel, Jordan and Sidney Gordon appear at arch. Gordon hesitated and stayids at 
arch. Ethel rushes forward; he takes both her hands.) 

Ethel J. Uncle, this is ours ! 

Burb. (offering his arm). Come, then, my darling. I hear the music 
playing, and we will dance it. (They skip into the ball room very swiftly — 
like two children) 

(CURTAIN.) 

A.OT III- 



Si;ene: Parlor; Burbank' s Residence. 
Time : Tuesday Morning. 
Arch with draped portiers at back centre ; door on right ; door on left; window 
between ar h and right door ; upholstered furniture parlor ; sofa to left; table 
to right; several chairs, etc; books on table ; window draped iciih curtains. 
(Enter Ethel Jordan in arch ; arranges portiers, curtains, books on tulle, 
chairs, etc.; stands and listens, looks toward right.) 

Jordan. I wonder what can be the matter with Uncle Cy— there 

must be something dreadfully wrong— why did he want to go home 

and appear so ill and then positively refuse to let anyone send for 

a doctor ; he has walked the floor all night ; has not slept a winK. 

(Enter at arch butler with large boquet of Curnat'wns and note.) 

Butler. For Miss Jordan, Ma'am. 

Jordan. How did they come ? 

Butler. Messenger, Ma'am. 

(Exit Butler, bowing ) 

Jordan. Thank you. (Takes note and flowers ) You may go! (Turn* 
over note, looks at flowers.) It's from Sidney, I know it. (Kisses note, 
kisses flowers.) How tender he has been! how delightfully he dances! 
And his voice, how soft, yet clear ! and his smiles, so devoted ; and 
his eyes— Oh, those eyes, always trying to speak, it seemed to me, 
but afraid to do so. I wonder what he can have to say. (Opens note. 
takes seat front centre facing left, reading): "My dear Miss Jordau : — I was 
very sorry Mr. Burbank's illness last night obliged you to leave so 
soon. It pained me much more than you can imagine. Miss Wil- 
son and I had quite a chat out in the garden— I released her from 



— 30 — 

our engagement — Did you know that we were engaged ?— yes, 
really! I always saw that you were kept ignorant of it. There 
never was much love lost on either side ; money on both. You 
know how those things are sometimes ; she is in love with a real 
nice chap — much better husband than I'll ever make, you know. 
I'm not worth a pinch of salt, I fear. I am coming up to see you 
this morning to ask after Mr. Burbank's health. I hope to find 
him well — and yourself— at home, happy and well and sweeter by 
far, aye! ten thousand times, than these humble flowers I send. 
Yours very devotedly, Sidney Gordon."— So; he was engaged to 
Miss Wilson ; the scamp, he always saw that I was kept ignorant 
of it— why does he now mention it himself ? He was afraid, per- 
haps, that I had heard of it and he wanted me to know it was off- 
well, what did it matter to me ? (Rises.) Anyway, we are nothing 
to each other. I wonder why he is coming up this morning ; (takes 
carnation out of boquet and pins it on bosom;) and why did he write a note 
first ? He wanted to be sure to find me— how does he express it ? 
(refers to note, reading) : and find you at home, well and happy and 
sweeter by far, aye! ten thousand times than these humble flowers 
(kisses flowers) I send. Oh, I'm so glad he is coming ; I'm just crazy 
to see him ; when does he say he is coming ? (refers to note) ; (ruefully) 
he doesn't mention the hour ; perhaps not before noon (sits down; 
faces left, flowers in lap, note in light hand, hanging down.) 

(Enter Burbank; looks weak^ pale, bid sad and calm. 

Barb, (softly). Ethel ! 
(Jordan, slightly startled, lets flowers and note fall on floor, rises slightly 
bashful, goes forward to meet Burbank, puts hands on shoulders, 
turning up face he kisses her on forehead. 

Jord. Good morning, Uncle! How do you feel? Why did you 
leave your room ? You look quite pale. Come sit do nil (arranging 
cushions, he declines seat with negative shake of head.) 

Barb. I prefer to stand (softly, but firmly); you sit down, please, I 
have something to say to you. I— I feel better standing. (Jordan 
takes seat facing half left, half rear. Burbank stands at her right shoulder. Can 
you stand some real bad news ? 

Jord. (Attempts to rise; Burbank keeps her in seat by placing hand on shoulder). 
Very bad ? Yes, tell me that I may share it with you. 

Burb. (slowly and softly). Then listen and I will tell you two stories 
at once -one of fortune and one of love! (continuing) when I was a 
lad, Ethel, and shortly after my mother died I worked my way up 
from where I lived to the place in Maryland close to which you 
were born. I obtained employment in a large woolen mill, and 
there I met Bessie Jordan, your father's only sister. I saw her 
work so hard with such a sad face— and at the close of day I knew 
she retnrned to a home that was far from being happy, and— so— I 
grew to pitying her and pity grew to love— I loved her truly and 
devotedly; she learned to love me. I asked her to marry me one 
day, but, strange to say, Bessie refused. For a while I could not 
fathom the reason ; that she loved me I felt sure. It was pride that 
held her back, shame for her parents, both of whom I am sorry to 
say drank! I told her I would gladly support them, that they 
should share our little home— but no, she would not listen. It 
wasn't very long before she was attacked by a disease (fiercely) con- 
tracted at the mills, and then I knew our fate was sealed. Bessie 
vould never be mine— her death came swiftly and left me heart- 
sick, older than my years- but the cause that brought on her 
death fired my very soul. I then resolved, for the sake of those 
who were exposed to the same danger of disease that Bessie had 
eontracted, to study how to eradicate the existing evils. As a re- 
sult of my study the mill hands all over the world have been bene- 



— 31 — 

flted. My patents were quickly taken up and besides making me 
a benefactor to mankind were the first steps to my growing for- 
tune. My fortune went up— up. Gradually I became the finan- 
cier; my name became coupled with large projects that required 
brains and capital. But as my fortune grew, so did my desire to 
do good, and there now exist some schools, hospitals and orphan 
homes that I hope will remain as a monument to my memory 
when I am no more. It was my idea when starting you into society 
to have you meet many men before you should decide to whom 
you would give your heart. But, Ethel, I must tell you with 
what courage I can command that financially I am a ruined man — 
that my fortune has gone in one great gulf — nothing, nothing will 
remain. This will prevent you from remaining in a hi^h social 
sphere; for many who would have worshipped you as my pros- 
pective heiress will now tip their hats and walk by. Is there on* 3 ! 
in the whole pack worthy of kissing the hem of your dress? I 
never knew bow humble and unworthy I was. till I met you. A 
bright star twinkled in my room last night— so much brighter than 
all the rest, sparkling with a hundred tires. I thought of you,— at 
two o'clock the moon with all its sadness rose ; it seemed to know 
my heart, to say to me : "Do not despair; courage! hope!" Ethel, 
teil me, has the moon lied? or turned my brain? Can you love 
me? (Ethel rises, takes flowers from bosom and throws them on floor.) "Will 
you be mine? Not for a week, or a day. but forever! Together 
we'll go side by side. I'll bravely fight them all over again, and 
something tells me, with new courage, with new fire I'll rise back 
to my old place again ! 

(Jordan neither accepts nor refuses in words, but to all appeirances is greaHy 
moved with love, pity, and admiration. She goes up to Burbank blinded or 
dazed, places right arm on his shoulder, head falls and sobs on his chest. Bur- 
bank does not put his arm around her, realizing the uncertainly of her inclina- 
tions; stands perfectly erect; looks straight -Ahead; does not try to console 
her, Sidney Gordan appears at arrh with Butler. Cautions Butler not to 
announce him, expecting to find Miss Jordan alone and to come in unannounced, 
looks to left first, becomes startled at sound of sobs, thrusts hands into pockets, 
as he looks at Burbank and Jordan, who do not know of his presence ; looks 
(J flowers and note lying on the floor ; thinks they are the cause of the trouble.) 
Goidan (going up softly). May I enquire the cause of Miss Jordan's 
tear S ? (Burbank looks around calmly. Jordan looks away, ceases crying shows 
agitation, but tries to be in afferent ) (To Burbank) : Is it because I sent her 
those flowers? Is it because I sent her that note ? I assure yon, 
she is not to blame in the matter. 

Burb. (calmly). Neither your flowers nor your note were the cause of 
Miss Jordan's tears; (slowly) they were graciously shed over my 
own misfortunes. 

Gord. Sir! I have made a great mistake, even greater than my 
intrusion. I pray that you and Miss Jordan also will be generous 
enough to accept my humble apology. With your permission I 
will withdraw, a sadder, but not much wiser man. 

Burb. No ; not yet, please. You may as well learn the truth and 
bear the tidings to your social acquaintances, many of whom we 
met last night for the first, and perhaps the last, time. Gordan, it 
it is simply this: I am financially ruined ; by noon to-day my for- 
tune will be swept away by a tide I stand powerless to stem aside. 
Gord. It is evident, sir, you think all your friends will runaway. 
Speaking for myself, yon greatly misjudge me. Tell me what has 
happened. You were considered too wise to be caught in any 
trap. Can nothing be done ? 

Burb. This is how it happened. John Wilson formed a clique to 
secure possession of the Delaware Short Line and subsidize it with 



— 32 — 

the Grand Trunk, took advantage of my friendship to get all my 
stock to be delivered to-morrow. I heard of the project, decided 
to defeat it, which I could bv getting Harland Fields to vote with 
me at the meeting to-day. Fields promised ; I sold right and left 
at the top price, all to be delivered to-morrow, expecting the result 
of the meeting to force the stock down. Fields went back on me, 
went over to the other side. They will beat me at the meeting, 
stock will go still higher, and that busts me. 

Gord. Surely it is not as bad as you fear ? something can be 
saved. 

Barb. Not a single penny ! 

Gord. This is too bad ! too bad ! what will you do ? 

Burb. Work and try to start life anew. 

Gord. What will Miss Jordon do ? 

Bnrb. I was trying to decide that when you entered. 

Jord. I will work also. 

Gord. Now, see here ; this will never do! Do you suppose I will 
ever allow you two to leave this house as long as I have— that is, 
as long as— well, never mind ; (to Burbank) we'll talk that over after 
a while and fix it all up ! 

Burb. Do you mean that you will assist me ? 

Gord. (confused.) That isn't just exactly what I mean. I wouldn't 
think of making any such offer. I know that yourself and Miss 
Jordan also have too much pride to even consider such an offer; 
you just let me alone for a few minutes, or sit down here (forces Bur- 
bank into a chair). Now, I came up here this morning to speak to Miss 
Jordan Miss J. takes a seat) ; but you both seem so nervous and ex- 
cited that I have kind of caught it myself. Now, you know, Mr- 
Burbank, I told you that morning I came up to your office how 
badly I wanted, that is, I told you why I came up there. 

Burb. Gordan, I have liked you better every day since I met you 
(puts forth hand, Gordan shakes it). I believe you to be an honorable 
and true gentleman. You must excuse me, I want to go to my 
room— (to himself walking out)— yes, sir! a true gentleman. (Exit Bur- 
bank.) 

Gordan (follows him with his eyes, shake shead sadly; (aside) what a noble fel- 
low ! (Ethel rises, her back to him; he turns face mhere she stands. (Sadly) 

Ethel! (no response); (sadly) when I wrote you that note this 

morning my heart felt light with gladness Commencing with the 
first day I saw you in the park and before I knew your name a 
change has grown upon me ; it has come in jumps and bounds and 
taken possession of me-not a flash of the sunlight or the scent of 
a rose, but seems tinged with that something. I came up here 
light with joy! hope in my heart and a prayer on my lips. The 
sorrow that has entered this house has cast its sadness on me and 
but shows the sympathy that exists between us! Last night I 
would have spoken to you but dared not then— the note has told 
why— but now may I— dare I tell you that I love you with all the 
fervor and devotion any woman could ask, since the first day I saw 
your face— Do not turn away— do not tell me I have guessed 
wrong— let me hear the music of your voice ; answer ! you will be 
my wife ? 

Jord. Mr. Gordan, I am sorry! it can never be! 

Gord. Can never be ! surely you can not mean it. Something in 
my heart tells me you can not mean what you say ! 

Jord. Our paths must be different ones ; we must forget that we 
ever knew each other— you to go your way, I to go mine, and so 
forever out of each other's life. 



— 33 — 

Gord. You can not ask me to forget you ; you can not ask me to 
stand aside. 

Jord. We shall think of you as a noble, true friend. Mr. Bur- 
bank can not be left cheerless— alone -wherever he may go, I shall 
follow at his side. 

Gord. I have so much— we could all be so happy ! 

Jord. You will forget soon, now that you know that it can 
never be. 

Gord. (much feeling). Can never be ! Ethel, tell me ! May I not 
hope? 

Jord. (very slowly). You must not hope! 

Gord. (crushed). Then must I say farewell ?— but I will never be 
far off! wherever you may go. Here lies a flower (picks up flower) 
torn from the rest, crushed and despised- I shall take it with me 
and carry it forever close to my heart. Ethel, should there come 
a brighter day, think well ©f me, for my heart still hopes! (Exit 
Gordan.) 

(Jordan watches him go down Ihe hall, looks out at window as he passes up the 
street, returns to left, takes seat head hanging down.) 
Jord. (in sobs). Poor fellow ! Sidney! Sidney! I have broken his 
heart ! 

(Enter Burbank softly. 

Burb. (aside). She has sent him away and is in tears. If she loves 
him I have ruined her life. 

( Violent ringing of door bell, repeated three or four times, Butler heard running 
to door, Jordan rises, she and Burbank go up to arch, enter Gordan excited, 
face flushed, perspiring, hat in hand, vest open, pants dusty, cane swinging, 
tie twisted.) 

Gord. (to Burbank). What was the name of that stock that's to be 
voted ? 

Burb. Delaware Short Line. 

Gord. (grabbing Burb. roughly by arm). Well, I own some of that, 
don't I? 

Burb. I should say you do. 

Gord. Couldn't I withdraw Fields' proxy and vote that stock my- 
self ? 

Burb. Why, certainly. 

Gord. Weil, hurry up ! — How much time have you anyway ? 
When is the meeting ? 
Burb. Eleven o'clock ; we havn't any time to lose. 
Gord. Well, hurry up ! Get your hat. 

(Jordan Exit to Burbank' s room R.) 
Burb. Wait a minute ! Have you reflected ? Do you know what 
you are about to do ? 

Gord. Why, of course, we'll smash the road ! You and I vote 
together! 
Burb. Will you do that ? 

Gord. Get your hat ! won't we give them a surprise? 
(Enter Jordan running with Burbank' s hat and light overcoat. They all three try 
to put on hat. All three help at coat. Gordan pulls Burbank through arch 
while he is still tugging at coat 
Burb. It's all up with Wilson now! 

Gord. There is a cab passing now— (cafe) hey ! whoa, cabby ! wait 
a minute! 

(Exit Burb. and Gord. Bell rings.) 



-34- . 

Jord. {joyfully). Sidney has found a way to save him, and Mr. Bur- 
bank has accepted ! 

{Enter Eev. Hollank, hat crushed, slightly limping, brushes pants.) 

Jord, {laughs). What has happened ? 

Holl. {ruefully), Just met a cyclone coming down the steps— What 
in the world is the matter V— Is the house on fire V They ran over 
mc-kftocked me down ; didn't say how-de-do? or apologize, but 
rushed on. I had a cab at the door instructed to wait ; neverthe- 
ess they have persuaded the man to take them off, and he started 
to see, I think, if he can kill his horse. What does it all mean ? 

Jord. Some very important railroad meeting, and they have to 
be there by eleven o'clock. 

Holl What has Gordan got to do with it ? He does'nt know any- 
thing about railroad meetings. 

Jord. Oh ! yes he does. 

Holl. Does he? 

Jord. Yes ; he knows everything about them. 

Holl Since when ? 

Jord. Since this morning, I think. 

Holl. Oh, I see ! By the by, how is Mr. Burbank. I came to ask 
about his health. I am glad to know he is able to move about so 
freely. He is now out for a long drive, but not on the advice of 
his physician. I should imagine. Do you know I was very much 
worried last night ; such a dreadful change seemed to have come 
over him. 

Jord. Oh! I think he is better now— he wouldn't have a physi- 
cian, but he walked up and down his room all nigbt If it hadn't 
been for Sidney— that is Mr. Gordan— I don't know what we would 
have done. 

Holl. {aside). Sidney -that is Mr. Gordan— seems to have distin- 
guished himself here. {bell rings — enter Edith Wilson. Wilson und Jor- 
dan embrace. Holland rises and stands impatiently waiting to shake hands, which 
she does after a slight delay. 

Jord. Oh, I am so glad you came ; it is very kind of you ! 

Wilson. I was so sorry you had to leave iast night. I almost 
cried— you made a great hit— Do you know your picture is in the 
papers this morning ? 

Jord. No! Is it? 

Wilson. Why, havn't you seen it ? 

Jord. Of course not. So many things have occurred this morn- 
ing that I havn't had time to think of anything. 

Holl. The papers say that you have a hundred admirers 

Wilson. I see one has already sent some flowers ; another a note. 
Tell me who sent the note ! 

Holl. The one who sent the flowers had better taste. 

Wilson. No, he didn't. 

Holl. I think he did. 

Wilson. I say he didn't ! Sir. you don't know all there can be in 
a note ! 

Holl. They are both Miss Jordan's ; let her decide. 

Jord. I judge ? Why, I couldn't do that ; I am disqualified. But 
please do tell me — what did the papers say ? I am anxious to 
learn ; it's so novel to be written up— it is to me anyway. 

Holl Why, Mr. Burbank must get the papers. Ask the Butler 
to hunt it for you. 



— 35- 

Jord. No, all of his papers are sent to the office. 

Wilson. Well, ask him to get you one. 

Jord. I'll do that (rings bell— enter Butler). Henry, can you get 
the morning paper for me ? 

Butler. Which one? (Gordon looks at Wilson inquiringly.) 

Wilson. The Express 

Butler (dryly). The one with the picture in it. (All laugh; Jordon 
confused) 

Wilson. (That's it! (Butler hesitates, starts for door, come3 back, 
opens coat, takes out paper.) 

Bvtler. I guess this is the one ; the coachman next door was 
lending me this one. I'm not in the habit of reading society pa- 
pers myself. 

Jord- Thank you (taikng paper); I'll return it. (Butler bows. 
Exit arch.) I hear the cab coming back. (She goes towarg a?*ch— 
bell rings, Enter Gordan and Terry Murphy ) 

Gordan. (Joyously shaking Jordon's hand.) Oh! we beat them, 
beat them bad. You should have been there ; never saw so much 
excitement in my life. Come on, Terry. Miss Jordon, this is Mr. 
Terry Murphy. Mr. Burbank told me to bring him up here. He 
wili be here himself in a little while to post us both (Jordon 
shakes Terry's hand. Gordan sees Wilson and Holland.) Hello! 
what brings you here ? (Shakes hands with both ) 

Jord. (To MiSs Wilson) Edith let me introduce Mr. Terry Mur> 
phy Miss Edith Wilson, (they bow) (To Holland) Kev. Holland— Mr. 
Murphy. 

Holl. (shaking hands) I recall with pleasure meeting you before. 

Murphy. Thank you ! but that pleasure was mine ! 

Gord. Here you have'nt introduced him properly, Mr. Terry 
Murphy, President of the Delaware Short Line Railroad, elected 
to that prominent position one half hour ago -Terry where is the 
"Special Bulletin" (Terry takes paper irompocket hands to Gordon.) 

Gord. (Opens and reads.) The result of the Delaware Short Line 
Meeting has created a tremendous shock and surprise to Wall 
Street, the reported consolidation of the road with the Grand 
Trunk has developed into a fizzle and farce and resulted in the 
most violent reaction of its stock that has occured on the Exchange 
in many years. In addition to the falseness of the report, the re- 
sult of which will cause the loss of many millions to innocent (?) 
stockholders, a new railroad President and Vice-President loom to 
the front, two men hitherto unknown in financial circles. The 
first is Terry Murphy, who it is learned has been for years in the 
employ of Mr. Cyrus Burbank beginning in life as his office boy; 
in this, the hand of the Philanthropist, Mr. Cyrus Burbank is 
recognized, many who are in a position to know, however, are of 
the opinion that in this step Mr Burbank has carried his philan- 
thropic too far, in addition to the position the salary of the offi- 
cial has been raised to $50,000 a year which is considered to be all 
this little road can carry. The election of Mr. Sidney Gordon to 
the Vice-Presidency is recognized as a pooling of the Gordon and 
Burbank interests. It is just reported that Mr Jno. Wilson who 
in this matter seems to have been oaught on the wrong side has 
applied to the Courts for an injunction to prevent the new officers 
from taking their seats. 

Murphy. I am of the opinion that the injunction will be denied 
and that the two officers will take their seats, what do you think 
about it ? 

Gord. I quite agree (They laugh and shake hands) Miss Wilson 
your pa is awfully angry at me. 



1 

1 



— 36 — 

Miss W. Is he ! why? 

Gordon. We never speak as we pass by— you have no idea what 
he said I was. 

Miss W. {laughing) No, but I can guess. 

Gord. Can you — yes I believe you can — you are pretty good at 
guessing anyway— so spare my feelings. 

Miss W. For some o:;e else's sake I will! I had better be going. 

Jord. Oh ! don't go. 

Wilson. Yes, I must. 

Holt (rising) I'll dismiss my cab and walk along if you will per- 
mit me to go with you. 

Wilson. Come on then (she puts arm around Jordan's shoulder 
theij walk out arch) ( Wilson turns) Goodbye Mr. Gordon, I am com- 
ing up to your office some day to have my pass renewed, will you 
do that for me ? 

Murphy, (drawing himself up mock seriousness) Well ! hem ! the 
rules and regulations you know (breaikng into smile) but the Presi- 
dent can at least do that much for you (bowing). 

Wilson. Oh ! thank you (Holland shakes both their hands) Exit 
Wilson, Jor don and Holland, (arch.) 

Gord. You carry yourself with grace to the company ! 

Murphy. Oh! we'll make that road hum, I wonder what kind of 
aspread the papers are going to give me, Newsboy to railroad pres- 
ident is a pretty big step. 

Gord. I should say so — a damn big step, tell me, will you know 
how to renew her pass when she comes up to see you ? 

Murphy. Hm ! that's easy ! 1 just tap a bell f in comes the boy, 
— here take this pasteboard over to the Vicepresidents office arid 
have him renew it 

Gord. Thats me (Murphy nods head) what in the deuce will I do 
with it ; 

Murphy. When ever I refer anything to the Vice] (resident I 
shall take it for granted that it will be attended to and there my 
responsibility ceases 

Gord. That lets you out ! lam beginning to see— I think you'll 
do- don'r worry, what do you think that stock will be w T orth after 
you and I run the road for a while. 

Murphy (Looking at him hard and trying not to smile) about 
twenty cents. 

Gord Burhanks got a cinch ! (Enter Jordan), (aside, leaving 
to Murphy to get out) Go see if Mr. Burbank is coming— any kind 
of an excuse to leave for a few minutes. 

Murphy. (Suddenly) Oh ! I left some bonds in my overcoat 
pocket out there in the hall, some body might put on the coat by 
mistake and walk off with them. (Exit Murphy.) 

Jord. Mr Gordon will you let me thank you for what you have 
done, though you make light of it I know the service has been 
great and I shall forever be grateful -admire and respect you 
foi it 

Gord. Do not tliank me— 11 ank you 1 self, }ou are the cr»use of 
it all but for you I would have continued to be a shiftless and ir- 
resolute perhaps worthless man, you have almost saved me (going 
up closer to her) one word from you can make me the happiest 
man or the most miserable wretch You have already saved Mr. 
Burbank and he will be here in a few moments to tell you so (Tak- 
ing Iter right hand in las rigid) it as easy to save two men as one- 
Tell me Ethel that you will— 






* 



— 37 — 

Jord. Sidney ! How can I longer refuse ! if he will forgive me 
and give his consent I will ! 

(Voice of Burbank heard off rear) Terry be in my office at two 
o'clock ! 

Gord. Leave him to me. 

Jord. No I must tell him. 

Burb {Voice) I'll fix everything up then you need'nt worry 
about anything, just leave that to me, and if some ladies come up 
{appears at arch 'talks at Terry down left) the three who are arran- 
ging for that orphan's home -(softer) just ask them to wait— I'll 
keep my promise and they shall go away happy. 

Terry, [off left) All right sir ! I'll be there and I'll tell them. 

Barbwk. (tarns) Ah ! my children ! {Jordan rushes up to him 
he holds 'her in ]as left arm) Ethel has he told you ! he has saved 
me ! (pats right hand on Gordon's shoulder*). 

Gord. Do not speak of it. 

Burb. I will not speak of it but shall ever carry it in my heart. 

Gord. Come sit down— you must be tired {between them they 
slowly lead him front centre, lie takes seat very calmly anticipating 
something) Gordon and, Jor don clasp hands behind, him— break away 
— Gordon walks toward arch looks away. 

Jordan, (begins standing then kneels) Uncle do you feel better 
now than you did this morning ? 

Burb. Yes my child ! 

Jord. Strong enough to hear some real bad news. 

Burl). Yes dear ! 

Jord Then listen and I will tell you two stories at once (falter- 
ing badly) one of duty and one of love (lets head fall on his knee 
unable to. go further). 

Burb. (Places hand on her head) It is not necessary child I know 
it already, you love him? {Jor don shakes head yes) (calls softly) 
Sidney ! (Gordon comes forward stands at his left shoulder,. You 
love her ? 

Gord. (simply) Yes. 

Burb. Will you cherish her and strive to make her happy ? 

Gord. Forever and always ! 

Barb. Then take her— she is yours — I give her up sadly; but 
bravely and freely— and in your mutual love and happiness I shall 
live mine (places her hand in his— they raise her together, Gordon 
supports her, Burbank steps to right) You can'take her abroad when 
you are married Sidney, you need'nt let the railroad worry you — 
Terry and I will attend to that (walks up and down) Some ladies 
will be down at my office this evening — they are going to open an 
orphan's home and I promised to see them. I feel a little bit faint 
and feverish— come Ethel raise your head and smile let us ero 
into the dining room and get a fine lunch I have to go (Ethel 
raises head smiles on both, gives each a hand they turn as though go- 
ing to leave. 

Jord. You know I love you too. That I will love you always. 

Burb. Why Ethel I never doubted it— the knowledge makes rae 
very happy— you don't know how happy (placing hand on chair for 
support) go on— I'll follow you— I have to hurry— those ladies will 
be waiting for me (slides into seat) Jordon and Gordon stand in arch 
about to leave stage) makes me very happy — very happy — (puts face 
between hands and sobs) Jordon runs to him, kneeling puts arm 
around him. 

CURTAIN. 




017 400 777 9 # 



